Open Call for Flatpack 2022
After the success of our inaugural open call for curators and programmers from underrepresented groups, we’re launching our second iteration.
Last year's open call introduced us to new films, brilliant artists, curators and programmers, and added different outlooks and approaches to the festival programme. While there's no set theme for this year's open call, we want to celebrate a range of different voices and perspectives at Flatpack 2022, shining a light on artists, filmmakers, and subjects that are underrepresented on and off screen.
See below for details…
Who is this open call for?
This project is open to anyone from a background that is underrepresented in the film and cultural sector (for example you are from a community that experiences racism, you are neurodiverse, you are from the LGBTQIA+ community, you did not go to University, you had free school meals as a child or you are a disabled person). There is currently a lack of diversity within film exhibition, and we’re committed to change by taking steps towards a more inclusive, interesting, and representative cultural sector.
All applicants must be based in the UK.
What are we looking for?
We're looking to fund two projects - they could be short film programmes, conversational events, audiovisual interventions, unseen docs, archive finds, retrospectives, family screenings - whatever you like, surprise us. We would expect applicants to demonstrate some previous experience and/or knowledge of programming and curating, and all projects must be viable (i.e. some prior research should have been done into the availability of personnel/films).
What money is involved?
Two proposals will be taken forward to be presented at the 16th Flatpack Festival in Birmingham (17-22 May 2022), with each project given a budget of £1,000 to cover curation time. Technicals, rights, venues, and marketing will be covered separately.
How do I apply?
Download and fill out this short form (Word Doc) along with an equal opportunity form (Word Doc) by Monday 28 February 2022. We will also accept video presentations or voice memos if you prefer to send your proposal that way, and we're happy to chat if you want to discuss your idea or find out more: submissions@flatpackfestival.org.uk
For more information on Flatpack, download this Word Doc: Flatpack Background Information
How are the applications assessed?
The applications will be assessed by a small, diverse panel of industry professionals, and will factor in the ambition, originality, feasibility, relevance, and audience-appeal of the projects. The two that score highest within these categories will be taken forward.
We will let all applicants know the outcome by Monday 7 March 2022.
Whilst we invite potential applicants to get in touch with us with any questions regarding their project proposal or the application process, we are unfortunately unable to offer feedback to unsuccessful applicants.
What events were selected during the previous round?
- Screening Season 1 of Russian queer web-series Here I Come with satelite Q&A with director Andrey Fenøčka.
- Screening of Hirokazu Koreeda’s 1988 film After Life, with commissioned essay written by writer Polly Barton, and limited edition A3 Riso artwork by illustrator Joey Yu.
- Screening of three short films exploring decolonial approaches to the ocean, with prerecorded Q&As with directors.
What did previous awardees say?
"Honestly, it's been a total pleasure working with the Flatpack team over the past few months on this. As I think I mentioned to some of you over the weekend, I was really put off working in film curation by some of the nastiness I'd encountered previously. With Flatpack, however, I've felt constantly supported and trusted throughout the process."
“Thank you again for such a great opportunity, it was an amazing experience.”