I’m pleased to assist VSA arts in announcing an exciting collaboration with AFI-Discovery Channel SILVERDOCS Documentary Festival in launching the first VSA arts apprenticeship at the International Documentary Conference from June 15 - 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. Selected VSA arts apprentices will have travel and accommodations covered by VSA arts and AFI, and receive mentoring by AFI Silver's Education Coordinator Matt Boratenski.

While we realize this is short notice, we wanted to move on the opportunity.  The interest expressed emerging disabled film-makers by the American Film Institute and SILVERDOCS is unprecedented by the industry. We see it as a sign of continued progress in creating real, tangible opportunities for disabled artists within the entertainment industry. 

The VSA arts apprenticeship in collaboration with AFI-Discovery Channel and SILVERDOCS is a golden opportunity for an emerging film-maker to get in on the ground floor with an established festival, network with those working in the field, get first class training in documentary film-making and be first in line to move on to the next level. 

In short, simply being there puts you at an advantage over other film-makers.

Applications are now being accepted for this first-ever prestigious program. Selected VSA arts apprentices will have the following expenses covered by VSA arts and AFI:

• Conference registration, room and board.
• Round trip economy class or coach travel to and from Silver Spring, Maryland, including ground transportation.
• Travel, room and board for a personal care assistant, if required.
• Reasonable accommodation for the apprentice's disability.

For more information and to apply please visit:
http://vsarts.org/x6042.xml

DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT: Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Download the submission guidelines (PDF format):
http://vsarts.org/documents/programs/SubmissionGuidelines09.pdf

Download the application (PDF format):
http://vsarts.org/documents/programs/ApprenticeshipApplication09.pdf

Please spread the word.

Sincerely yours,

 

 

Lawrence Carter-Long

Executive Director, Disabilities Network of NYC

Founder/Curator, The disTHIS! Film Series: disability through a whole new lens