Beyond the Frame

Schmüdde is a filmmaker known for his winding narratives and distinct cinematic style.  He is committed to pushing the boundaries of conventional cinema using technique and technology to convey a strong spiritual presence.

He spent his undergraduate education studying the intersection of computers and creativity by writing the code for ARDIS - software that generated images inspired by common genres and user taste.  While working towards his Masters in Music, he was a member of the audio/visual performance group LUCID DREAM ENSEMBLE.  The group’s existence was highlighted by engagements at the prestigious Seamus Electro-Acoustic Music Society and the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art.   He was also a member of BLAST for four years as a dancer/choreographer/composer, developing pieces for their annual showcase.

Schmüdde is currently the Executive Producer/Director at EarthCircle Films, LLC and an Associate Professor at the Illinois Institute of Art.  His last film, REFUGE, screened at the Chicago International Film Festival and was broadcast internationally on the Dish Network and DirecTV on ShortsHD.  His two daily blogs, AESTHETICS OF THE INVISIBLE WORLD, regarding spirituality and art, and BEYOND THE FRAME, a blog on directing film, are read worldwide.