South Australia Minister for Industry and Skills David Pisoni

New Chief Executive For The Adelaide Film Festival

Victor P Taffa

Experienced film festival curator Mathew Kesting has been appointed as the new Chief Executive and Creative Director of the Adelaide Film Festival (AFF).

Mr. Kesting who has extensive experience with almost 20 years in the Australia film industry, including AFF Programs Manager since 2015, won the position from a strong field of international and national candidates.

In between AFF’s biennial programs he has been Exhibition Manager at Adelaide’s Mercury Cinema and has curated 6 editions of the OzAsia film program.

Mr. Kesting was also the Program Manager at the Brisbane International Film Festival from 2006 until 2008 and produced the 15/15 Film Festival between 1999-2009.

Minister for Industry and Skills David Pisoni said it is exciting to have someone of Mr. Kesting’s ability and passion for the South Australian film sector to lead the renowned AFF which also reflects the Marshall Government’s commitment to enhance creative arts and job opportunities in South Australia.

“Government is committed to creating new career opportunities for young South Australians and growing our creative arts sector is just one way of doing this.” Minister Pisoni said.

“Adelaide Film Festival has established a global reputation as a bold and innovative event, which last year showcased exciting new talent in the Australian screen industry, with an amazing variety in the 139 films that featured, 29 of which were South Australian.”

“I look forward to Mr. Kesting’s contribution to the Adelaide Film Festival and am confident that he will continue to build the reputation of this important South Australian cultural institution.” Minister Pisoni said.

Minister Pisoni said this was a positive example of how the Marshall Government is supporting creative arts in South Australia.

Chair of the AFF Sandra Sdraulig said Mr. Kesting’s depth of knowledge, love for films, festivals and screen culture will ensure the continued success of the AFF.

“Adelaide Film Festival is a brilliant showcase of the best of our local industry and its growing future potential, and Mr. Kesting has been part of that for some time now.” Ms. Sdraulig said.

“For him to continue on as its Chief Executive and Creative Director will ensure the next festival will be as internationally recognised as the last.”

Mathew Kesting said he was excited about the opportunity.

“I want to continue to support creative talent in this state and help grow South Australia and Australia’s reputation for filmmaking.” Mr. Kesting said.

“It is important for local audiences to see Australian stories on the big screen and supporting the effort to bring more films to them is something I’m very much looking forward to.”

Next Adelaide Film Festival will take place in 2020.