Lamont Nathaniel Gibson: A Filmmaker shaped by Philly and Molded by Temple

MFA Film and Media Arts

Lamont is a filmmaker and documentary artist based in Philadelphia, PA. He earned his BFA in Film and Media Arts, specializing in directing, from Temple University in 2019, where he developed a strong foundation in documentary filmmaking. Driven by a passion for storytelling, Lamont returned to Temple to pursue an MFA in Film and Media Arts, with a focus on narrative cinema. His work reflects a deep commitment to exploring complex stories through both documentary and narrative lenses, continuously pushing the boundaries of his craft. Lamont is currently focused on completing his thesis film, Silent Pull, a powerful LGBTQIA+ short narrative that he plans to submit to film festivals around the world. 

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. 

Can you briefly describe the chain of events that led you to graduate school at Temple?

Well, I’m from North Philadelphia, born in Temple University Hospital, and I graduated from Temple University with my BFA in Film and Media Arts in 2019. I focused on documentary work in undergrad, but I always wanted to explore narrative film. I wanted to keep improving my craft, and I wasn’t ready to stop learning. So I decided to return to Temple for my MFA in Film and Media Arts. Temple has always been a place where I felt both supported and challenged creatively. It was important to continue my artistic development, gain more formal education, and take my work to the next level.

Why did you pursue graduate study in Philadelphia? What do you enjoy about studying in the city?

I pursued graduate study in Philadelphia for a few key reasons. First, my deep connection to the city—being born and raised here—fuels my gratitude. Second, the city’s arts scene is woven into its neighborhoods. From downtown theater productions to the vibrant Mural Arts Program, and from community-based organizations like Cine Speak, Scribe Video Center, PhillyCam, and the Philadelphia Film Society, there is always a space where artists can express themselves or appreciate the work of others. Philadelphia offers a rare, immersive environment that fosters creative freedom and collaboration. And lastly, it has always been a place where art is welcome and where artists are able to grow. I truly feel that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be— Philadelphia made me the artist I am today, and Temple University helped mold me into the Filmmaker I’ve become.

What impact do you hope your Films will have?

I want to leave behind a legacy defined by the quality and authenticity of my work. What exactly that looks like, I'm still figuring out, but I know it will be rooted in my experiences, my stories, and the lessons I've learned along the way. I want my work to offer a glimpse into the life I've lived and provide insights that resonate with others. Ultimately, I hope it empowers my community and others to embrace and stay true to their own stories, preserving their authenticity for future generations.

What specific challenges has being in grad school helped you learn to face?

Grad school has been a game-changer in helping me navigate and embrace critique, something I initially struggled with. I’ve always been deeply passionate about my work, so receiving feedback felt personal at first. However, through a steep learning curve, I’ve come to realize just how valuable it is to see my work from other perspectives. The ability to incorporate critiques and refine my process has been one of the most transformative aspects of my growth, pushing me to become not just a better filmmaker, but a more open and adaptable one.

Who are some of your mentors or people you look up to?

Professor Rea Tajiri, a renowned documentary filmmaker, has been an indispensable mentor in my artistic journey. Not only has she shaped my filmmaking skills, but she’s also been a guiding force through the personal challenges that come with being an artist. Her mentorship has been vital to my growth—creatively, intellectually, and personally. Equally transformative has been Chet Pancake, a documentary filmmaker and professor at Temple, whom I’ve known since my undergraduate years. His unwavering support for my documentary work, combined with his encouragement to explore narrative filmmaking, has helped me feel deeply rooted in a community that embraces and nurtures my evolving artistic voice. Finally, Sarah Drury, a media artist and professor at Temple, has been a constant presence in my growth, from undergrad to graduate school. Her consistent support, whether in helping me navigate the challenges of teaching at the college level or in balancing my own artistic practice, has been invaluable. Together, they’ve provided a solid foundation for me to thrive in the MFA program, both as an artist and as an individual.

What is one piece of advice you’d offer to a potential graduate student?

My best piece of advice is to trust the process. Grad school can feel overwhelming, and it’s tempting to think you need to have everything figured out from the start. But the truth is, you don’t need all the answers right away. You’re there to evolve, and growth doesn’t happen overnight. Stay focused, keep pushing yourself, and embrace the journey. The answers will come, and you'll get exactly where you need to be—just keep learning, creating, and trusting the path ahead.