There is no one who knows more about the trails at Overton Park’s Old Forest than noted Memphis photographer Peter Ceren. After all, he has been walking the trails for decades, taking more than 50,000 photographs that span from the literal to the spiritual.

Now, we have the privilege of supporting – and benefiting – from his intimate, thoughtful experiences with the most special 172 wooded acres in Memphis by contributing through Kickstarter to the production of his film, The Old Forest: Years of Unexpected Views.  Most of the principal photography covers the last 12 years as Mr. Ceren’s remarkable lens revealed this special place in new and introspective ways.

Mr. Ceren can accurately be called a Renaissance man – photographer, videographer, novelist, documentarian, researcher, and sage.  Mr. Ceren brings his background to to produce a film authentically Memphis to answer his question:

“What is it that draws someone back to the same 172 wooded acres, at all times of the day, in all kinds of weather, through every facet of changing seasons? Literally thousands of trips…”

After taking more than 50,000 photographs and producing a film, The Old Forest through almost 7 years, his new documentary is, in his words, “a vehicle of hope,” showing the history of “when Native Americans tended this sacred space with fire and ceremony.” 

“I will show how, over a century ago, this still virgin, ancient forest was set aside to do what it does…  to make us more human and help us remember who we are.”

From the founding of Overton Park, his new film, featuring his characteristically poetic narrative, will bring the history of the forest to the Supreme Court decision that preserved and protected the park to the more recent Greensward controversy.  In this way, the film is not just about the forest but a story about Memphis itself. 

The length of this new, inspirational film – one to two hours – is dependent on us.  Our Kickstarter contributions can allow it to be richer and deeper as Mr. Ceren explores the many stories that can be revealed from his unique knowledge and interpretation of the forest. 

Kickstarter goals for the film are $4,200 for a one-hour video and $10,000 for two hours of video or two one-hour episodes. There are bonuses to contributions that can include a book, an e-book, an archival photograph, and a large mounted archival photograph.

Deadline for the film is August, 2027.  It’s an opportunity to support a fascinating project but also honor a special artistic force in our community.