Ariel Julia Hairston

the Storyteller. the ATLien.

After graduating from Valdosta State University with a BFA in Mass Media, Ariel quickly made her mark in the industry by creating Outlandish, a comedy web series that amassed over half a million views on YouTube.

Her directorial prowess was further showcased in her acclaimed LGBTQ+ short films, Now What?, a comedy short about coming out after loss, and Centerfold, a romantic drama that premiered at Martha’s Vineyard African-American Film Festival.

Ariel's unique perspective and passion for storytelling have led her to direct three feature films: Boxed In, starring Reginae Carter and Clifton Powell, The Comeback, starring Taye Diggs and Apryl Jones, and Both Eyes Open, which marks her screenwriting debut, starring Gail Bean and Tristan Mack Wilds. Her work continues to elevate women and push boundaries in independent film.