A Short Film
Disconnect by Ibec Francis, A Short Film
This is a story that follows Malekai, a dedicated student, and a best friend called Kevin. Throughout the day, Malekai clings to hope, but as the day progresses, he must confront a painful reality. The story explores his inner battle between a longing for Kevin and facing the truth. It’s based on a true story.
A Photography Collection
An Interview with Ibec Francis
K.C Stephenson
What is the personal significance of your work? In addition to this do you have any one place that you draw inspiration from or is it all just moment by moment ideas?
In my work, I really want to showcase a captured moment/ a narrative that was captured by me. Each photograph I take is more than just an image; it’s a narrative, a glimpse into a scene that resonated with me, and hopefully one that resonates with others too. I’m deeply passionate about telling stories through my photos and inviting the viewer not just to see what I saw, but to feel something, to interpret, and even to create their own narrative from the image. Inspiration for me isn’t fixed to one place, I do draw influence from the world around me, much of my creative process is intuitive and rooted in the moment. Sometimes it’s the light, a fleeting expression, or a quiet detail that sparks an idea. Other times, it’s a feeling or memory that guides me. I try to stay open and present, allowing each frame to emerge naturally rather than forcing it
How do you decide if a project you’re working on is done or not? Do you ever finish something and say “this could use more work” and how often do you find yourself working overtime on a piece?
I decide a project is complete when I feel a sense of contentment with it. As a creative, there’s always that drive to keep refining, to chase perfection but I’ve learned that sometimes it’s the imperfections that give a piece its soul. Those flaws can be what make the work feel real, honest, and complete in its own way. When it comes to my short film projects, I often find myself going into overtime. There are so many layers, sound, visuals, pacing, emotion, all working together, and I want to give each one the attention it deserves. It’s a more complex process, but that’s part of what makes it so rewarding.
Do you hold VSU in any special place in regards to the work you’ve done? Would you say that you’ve done a majority of piece on it or off it?
Coming to VSU was a turning point for me creatively. It challenged me to explore new perspectives and opened my eyes to different ways of storytelling—something I’ve truly come to appreciate. My time here has helped me understand that art isn’t just about the final product; it’s a window into the artist’s psyche. At the same time, it becomes a mirror for the viewer, allowing them to discover something within themselves. That duality—personal expression and shared experience—is what makes art so powerful.
This question has two parts. First: are you working on anything right now or just trying to make it through to the end of the semester? And two: do you plan on submitting anything else to the journal?
As a creative, I’m always immersed in something new. I recently wrapped up my latest short film, Dearly Beloved, which should be released by the time this goes live. Alongside that, I’m also working on a few smaller photographic and literary projects that continue to push my creative boundaries. I enjoy staying in motion, it keeps my ideas fresh and evolving. I also plan to submit more work to the journal in the future, if given the opportunity. It’s been a meaningful platform for sharing my voice, and I’d love to keep contributing.