The Art of Not Being Boring: Polymath Hans Fjellestad on Chaos and Creativity
Throughout history, figures like Jane Goodall, Benjamin Franklin, and Leonardo da Vinci have stood out as polymaths—individuals driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and expertise across a multitude of fields. This week, we welcome Hans Fjellestad, a member of their esteemed ranks. A true Renaissance man, Hans's talents span music, film, and education.
In our conversation, Hans walks us through his artistic evolution, starting with his classical piano background and progressing into the realm of experimental electronic compositions. Along the way, he shares stories from his experiences in documentary filmmaking, including insights from acclaimed projects such as Moog and a recent work centered on the sculptor Luis Bermudez.
As Hans and Scott delve deeper into the conversation, they explore the roots of creativity, the fascinating interplay between music and language, and the chaotic beauty of performing live in front of an audience.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
About Hans Fjellestad
Los Angeles-based filmmaker, musician, and educator Hans Fjellestad has made a significant mark in the arts, producing content across the globe, including the U.S., UK, Japan, and Afghanistan. His award-winning films, such as Sunset Strip (2012) and Moog (2004), have been featured on major platforms like Netflix and PBS. A classically trained pianist with a BA in Music from UCSD, Fjellestad has composed scores for theater and film while performing extensively worldwide. He co-founded Accretions, an independent music label celebrating its 35th anniversary, and recently released a retrospective compilation on multiple streaming platforms.
Since 2015, he has lectured at UCLA's Herb Alpert School of Music, focusing on music for visual media. Additionally, Fjellestad has curated international art initiatives and served on various arts commissions, shaping the cultural landscape while actively engaging in underserved communities through his work at Crewest Studio and various educational institutions.
