Lynn Shelton, 1965 - 2020
SIFF Artistic Director Beth Barrett remembers beloved Seattle filmmaker Lynn Shelton.
On Friday, May 15, 2020, Seattle filmmaker Lynn Shelton passed away suddenly. The film community, her family, and loved ones are reeling—the effect of her loss is deep. Lynn was not only an amazingly talented filmmaker and artist, she was a cheerleader for film in Seattle and for artists everywhere. Creative, compassionate, and wildly funny, she loved to laugh (a lot), sing, dance, and connect with people.
It was always a highlight to email Lynn and invite one of her films to the Festival. I knew that her Q&As (and audience response) would be filled with pure joy as she spoke of her films and voiced deep and genuine appreciation of her cast and crew from stage. I would have to watch all of those screenings from the wings, because there was never an empty seat in the house. She was kind and appreciative towards every person she came in contact with, from Guest Relations to Venue Staff to Volunteers. Her graciousness and passion for film came though in everything she did and said.
SIFF grieves the loss of a truly wonderful human, the loss of work she had yet to do, and the loss of one of Seattle's own treasures.
—Beth Barrett, SIFF Artistic Director
