Studio arts junior Patrick Dufauchard, who goes by Patrick Melon in his life as an artist, has turned his second film into a festival showcasing several artists’ work.

“The first one was a documentary I made on a group of young skateboarders in New Orleans, and it premiered at a skate shop there,” Melon said of 2011’s “Melon Summer.”

Melon said “[ 8 ]” is a short autobiographical film in which he is sharing both a personal story and showing the extent to which his filming and editing has progressed since “Melon Summer.” He shot it over a period of seven months in Chicago.

Since “[ 8 ]” had been a lot more time-consuming and he wanted to share with a wider audience, Melon booked Café Istanbul in New Orleans for its premiere.

Melon said he never considered the event a film festival until people started referring to it as one.

“I sent out an email and put up advertisements looking for submissions,” he said. Melon realized he wanted to give other people exposure.

Melon said he is providing the majority of the event’s expenses out of pocket, but he is being assisted by his sponsors Humidity Skateshop, Tall Tale and re:refresh.

Mike Gnar, owner of Baton Rouge-based clothing company Tall Tale, is showing a promotional film at the event.

New Orleans native George Bodden is another contributor and friend of Melon.

“We support one another, and I’m a big fan of his cinematography work and vice versa.” Bodden said.

Bodden, who produces through independent company 3517 Law Street Productions, said he wants people to support the art scene in New Orleans.

The film festival will be held at 7 p.m. on Feb. 20 at Café Istanbul in New Orleans, at 2372 St. Claude Ave. The event is free.

Editor’s Note: This article has been corrected to reflect the following change: In the original version, The Daily Reveille reported the film festival will occur on Feb. 21. 

When: Feb. 21 at 7 p.m.
Where: Cafe Istanbul, at 2372 Claude Ave.
Admission: Non