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Kerry Beyer
“My name is Kerry Beyer. I graduated from the College of Business here at UH in ‘94. I like to consider myself a visual artist.”
Kerry Beyer, photographer and filmmaker, pursued the University of Houston Bauer College of Business to shore up his artistic passion.
“I wanted to pursue a career in the arts, but what I needed was the infrastructure and business skills to make that a viable living,” he said. “I felt that if I got a business management degree I’d always be able to get a job.”
A successful photography business owner, Beyer also directs Kerosene Films, a local independent company that has produced such films as “Spirit Camp,” “Code of Evil” and “Rogue Strike,” which featured some UH actors.
“The first movie I did was a horror film. We had a great response to that and a little cult following,” Beyer said. “I wanted to do something completely different. So I did a ‘180’ and did a submarine thriller—‘Rogue Strike.’”
Beyer, whose films have been made in Houston, advises young filmmakers to do as he was taught—have a basic understanding of business and marketing and be able to convey your ideas concisely.
“You also need people management skills. When I’m directing, I’m creating a supportive environment to do best work, but I’m also providing leadership and boundaries. You have to work that balance,” he said. “I’m a filmmaker and UH gave me a foundation to be successful in the arts.”
Successful alums are part of what’s happening at the University of Houston. I’m Marisa Ramirez.
A scene from “Rogue Strike”