News

Bonesteel's George Masa documentary premieres this week

By Bill Moss, Published: April 19, 2026

A new documentary exploring the life of George Masa, a Japanese immigrant photographer whose images helped shape early conservation efforts and the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, will be featured in a series of special free screenings across western North Carolina this week ahead of its national broadcast premiere on PBS.

“A Life Reimagined: The George Masa Story,” directed by Asheville-based filmmaker Paul Bonesteel, will begin airing May 1 on PBS stations across the country and PBS’ WORLD Channel. A North Carolina broadcast on PBS North Carolina is scheduled for May 12.
Drawing on newly uncovered research — including previously unknown letters — the film reveals long-hidden aspects of Masa’s life, challenging what was previously understood about one of the most influential yet elusive figures in American conservation history and offering a more complex portrait of the man behind some of the region’s most iconic images.
The upcoming screenings offer audiences an opportunity to experience the film in a place central to Masa’s life and work, and hear from the producer/director himself.
“Interacting with the audience after we\'ve just seen the film together is a rewarding experience for me and always brings out great conversation,” said Bonesteel, a Hendersonville native who is the son of Georgia and the late Pete Bonesteel.
Masa lived in Asheville in the early 20th century, where he worked at Grove Park Inn, operated a photography studio and collaborated with influential figures of the era, including Edith Vanderbilt. His photographs not only captured the beauty of the Southern Appalachians but also helped build public support for what would become the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Bonesteel will introduce the film and take questions following the screenings. Here's the dates and venues:

• 6 p.m. Monday, April 20: University of North Carolina Asheville, Alumni Hall Student Center, presented by the UNCA Department of Psychology and Ramsey Library Special Collections at Alumni Hall. The UNCA Ramsey library holds many important collections connected and related to George Masa.
• 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 22: Western Carolina University, UC Theater, 136 Hinds University Center, Cullowhee, presented by Western Carolina University’s School of Stage and Screen. Western Carolina University’s Hunter Library holds many George Masa photographs and artifacts, and is featured in the film.
• 6:30 p.m., April 29: Fine Arts Theatre, 36 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, presented by PBS North Carolina and Explore Asheville. This screening requires a ticket. Reserve seats at Fine Arts Theatre https://fineartstheatre.com/special-events

For more information about the film and screenings, visit www.georgemasa.com