Bang Bang

Born in Szczecin, Poland, Piotr Skowroński is a first-generation Canadian who immigrated with his family in the 1980s to escape social and political upheaval under the Soviet Union. His parents' involvement in Solidarność (Solidarity), the trade union that led to the downfall of the totalitarian regime, prompted their move from Poland.

With a passion for visual arts and media, Piotr graduated from the Film Production Program at Confederation College and has been based in Northern Ontario for nearly two decades. He has spearheaded dozens of media arts projects and independent film productions, actively contributing to the growth of the northern arts scene and local film community. His passion for media arts and film production goes hand-in-hand with his collaborative approach and dedication to community development.

Piotr's artistic practice embraces an auteur approach to filmmaking, drawing from his extensive knowledge of film history and years of hands-on experience in various aspects of production. From writing, directing, cinematography, and editing, to project development and producing, his focus on character-driven narratives has resulted in a collection of award-winning shorts including "Cat and Mouse," "Free Press," "Undertow," "Love & Hate," and "Garść Ziemi" (A Handful of Soil). His debut feature film, "These Lovers," premiered at the 18th Shanghai International Film Festival, showcasing an honest portrayal of love amidst loss and loneliness. His follow-up feature, "The Discarded," delves into themes of economic struggle and survival, highlighting the perils of debt enslavement. Both projects were developed and executed entirely in Northern Ontario, utilizing local resources, building capacity, and fostering artistic collaborations and partnerships.

In addition to his narrative work, Piotr is active in documentary and experimental projects, with notable endeavors such as "Poverty Line," "Kiedy Wracam Myślami" (When I Think Back), and "The Dance Connection" receiving acclaim and international attention. His experimental art film installation "Facade," generously supported by the Ontario Arts Council, was presented at the Definitely Superior Art Gallery in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

"Bang Bang" marks the most recent addition to Piotr’s growing portfolio of cinematic work and showcases a significant development in visual language and aesthetic. The film has had international screenings and recognition, including Best Cinematography and Best Editing at the Short to the Point Film Festival, Mind the Indie Film Festival, Hong Kong Indie Film Festival, Sydney Indie Film Festival, Paris International Short Festival, Toronto Independent Film Festival, and Cinefest Sudbury International Film Festival. Piotr also received the Outstanding Director - Mid/Short-Length Film at the 2024 NOMFA Awards.

Beyond his own artistic practice and on-set mentoring, Piotr has also shared his knowledge and expertise in filmmaking as a Professor in the School of Media at Canadore College, where for three years he taught the art and craft of filmmaking to the next generation of aspiring artists and professionals.