The ARTiFACT Film Festival wrapped its first edition in Los Angeles this month, establishing itself as a new platform for international filmmakers and creative professionals. Presented by Rehoboth Media and Technologies LLC, the two-day event attracted entries from 17 countries and brought together filmmakers, fashion designers, and media executives in what organizers describe as a multidisciplinary approach to cultural programming.
From the 18 finalist films selected, awards went to projects spanning four continents. “Book of Skin” from the United States took Best Short Film, while Nigeria’s “Aso Ebi Diaries” won Best Feature. The documentary prize went to a Norwegian entry about historical revolution, and Brazil and Portugal shared recognition for their experimental new media work “BOTTLENECK.” Iran’s “ker” captured Best International Film.
Industry Veterans Join Programming
The festival distinguished itself through its panel discussions and workshops, featuring working professionals from major studios and networks. Natasha Ward, who has cast for Netflix’s “The Perfect Find” and BET’s “The Oval,” discussed inclusive casting practices. Cinematographer / Director Isaac Taylor and Director Grant Housley, both with credits on multiple cable series, shared technical insights. Disney screenwriter Tiffany Thomas and Amber Harris, a writer on FX’s “Snowfall” and Peacock’s “Bel-Air,” led sessions on developing television content.
Arnold Turner, a celebrity photographer whose work appears through Getty Images and has captured everyone from Beyoncé to Viola Davis, participated alongside Sam Okhade, who distributes African films to Netflix and Prime Video through his Afritalent Agency. The international film showcase drew support from government representatives, including Nigeria’s Director General of Tourism Development Authority – Dr. Ola Awakan, former Director General of Nigerian Tourism Development Authority- Mrs Omotayo Omotosho MFR and a representative from the Egyptian Consulate Ms. Mira Victor.
Beyond Screening Rooms
Unlike traditional film festivals, ARTiFACT incorporated fashion shows and art exhibitions into its programming. Designers including Melissa Pellone, Kimie Fashion, and Mike Sylla presented collections, while vendors created what organizers called a “cultural marketplace” atmosphere. Corporate sponsors Coca-Cola, Whole Foods, and First Entertainment Credit Union backed the event.
Founder Olawunmi Oyedeji popularly called Olah, a Nigerian-born filmmaker and entrepreneur based in Los Angeles, created the festival as part of her broader work with Rehoboth Media and Technologies. During the festival, she premiered her feature film “IMA,” described as a story about love and resilience set in Nigeria, which will receive global distribution.
“This is only the beginning,” Olah said. “ARTiFACT was created to inspire, to educate, and to open doors for global creatives.”
The company plans to expand its creative platform by partnering with other countries to host similar events internationally. For Rehoboth Media and Technologies, Olah envisions producing films, television shows, and events that meet global standards. The success of this first edition positions the emerging festival as a new fixture in California’s crowded cultural calendar, competing for attention in a market that includes established events like Sundance, Tribeca, and the Los Angeles Film Festival.