I come out of a movement to make media that creates opportunity for social change. I have made documentary films – frequently with limited resources – since 1968.  I believe in the power of telling the truth with all the understanding intellect can offer. My intent is to create meaningful work, tell the truth about working class Americans, and contribute to the independent field.

In 1982, I began an association with Appalshop of Whitesburg, Kentucky– a national arts center described by Pat Aufderheide as “an unsentimental exercise in authenticity.” See List of Films for specific titles about social justice, economic justice, and Appalachian culture. Prior to my work at Appalshop, I was associate director and assistant camerawoman for Harlan County U.S.A..

I am a Film/Video/Multimedia Fellow of the Rockefeller Foundation, a senior lecturer in editing and documentary filmmaking at The University of Texas at Austin, and a proud member of Local 6186 CWA-NABET and the Texas State Employees Union. These are some links to articles about my work. Center for Social Media, American University “Anne Lewis and Creative Vision” In Motion Magazine An interview with Anne Lewis  “Community Directed Television” The Austin Chronicle “Texas Documentary Tour: Anne Lewis"