Deren is a term that can refer to various subjects, but it is often associated with the influential American filmmaker and artist, Maya Deren. Born in 1917, Deren is best known for her experimental films in the 1940s, which explored themes of dream, identity, and the subconscious. Her most famous work, Meshes of the Afternoon, is considered a landmark in avant-garde cinema. In addition to her filmmaking, Deren was also a writer and a key figure in the American avant-garde movement. She contributed to the development of dance and performance art, emphasizing the importance of movement in her films. Deren's innovative techniques and artistic vision continue to inspire filmmakers and artists today.