The Flanders Audiovisual Fund announced April 17 the appointment of Jasper Nijsmans as Head of Flanders Image, the audiovisual export agency for Flanders and Brussels, Belgium. He will take up the role immediately.
VAF confirmed that it received 26 applications for the vacancy, which was opened in January, after the departure of former Head Christian de Schutter in December 2023.
The selection process was led by a four-member panel that comprised VAF directors Koen Van Bockstal and Frederik Beernaert; Doreen Boonekamp, former CEO of the Netherlands Film Fund, and distribution executive Karin Beyens.
The VAF statement underlined that “Flanders Image will continue to fulfil its function as the promotion agency for the Flemish audiovisual industry on an international level, beginning with the Cannes Film Market, where Flemish feature Julie Keeps Quiet has been selected for the Semaine de la critique. In addition to showcasing new productions and both new and established talent from Flanders to the international film industry, the first steps will also be taken to develop a domestic promotion operation, supporting the distribution of Flemish films in Belgium.”
On taking up his new role, Nijsmans commented: “The Flanders Audiovisual Fund and Flanders Image are essential links in the Flemish audiovisual chain. I look forward to continuing the good work of the promotion department, of which I have been a part for several years, and contributing to the support of Flemish talent.”
Koen Van Bockstal, CEO of the Flanders Audiovisual Fund said: “Jasper Nijsmans won us over unanimously with his clear vision of the objectives of VAF and Flanders Image. With Jasper at the helm comes a fresh perspective on the future of the promotion department, combined with solid experience and both knowledge and love of the sector. We wish him the best of luck and are convinced he will be an excellent ambassador for the abundance of talent in Flanders.”
Created in 1989, Flanders Image is in charge of the promotion of audiovisual creations made in Flanders and Brussels, Belgium. It is the sole official representative of Flanders’ content and talent at all key international festivals and markets.
The organisation produces publications, both online and print, informs curators and buyers, runs market and festival booths in carrying out its promotion duties. “Together with third parties, it explores emerging markets and new and improved ways of presenting audiovisual creations,” the organisation adds online.
