O Pioneer

O Pioneer reckons with and redefines the American pioneer. The documentary follows three West Virginians—a blacksmith, a seamstress, and a hospital chaplain—as they creatively navigate hardship. Weaving narration with archival pioneer footage, candid moments from each subject, poetic vignettes, and dream-like animation. O Pioneer asks viewers to courageously champion the pioneer within.

Textile artist and seamstress Nellie Rose Gundersen Davis finds meaning and value in creating art with fabric. This video clip features Nellie hanging her handmade textiles on a scenic West Virginia mountaintop and sharing her thoughts on the significance of this art form to her.

James, a chaplain and minister, fondly remembers his childhood visits to his grandmother in Tennessee. Through animation, we see young James preaching to his grandmother, whose patience and unwavering support inspired his confidence and path into ministry.

The French root of the word pioneer translates to "foot soldier" or "pawn," according to Kaïa Kater. She explores the destructive history of American pioneers, referencing Walt Whitman's 19th-century writings. Kater concludes that the term "pioneer" has become unattainable in the modern era.

In Green Bank, West Virginia, Aeliza's performance of David Bowie's Space Oddity fills her father Tim with pride. Tim reflects on the profound impact of the pandemic, drawing parallels between the isolation of an astronaut and the forced separation of loved ones. The poignant lyrics resonate deeply as Sasha remains at home isolated from her family, further emphasizing the distance between them.

After spending many months in isolation making masks for healthcare and essential workers, Nellie Rose has returned to her passion for painting fabric and creating textile art. This marks a moment of renewed inspiration for Nellie, who is finally able to focus on her true love.