Film, video and photo fest to showcase ASEAN talent

Hera Diani, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta

Aspiring filmmakers and photographers, do you want the opportunity to expose your work in the United States, plus have a chance to win cash up to US$1,750 at the first U.S. ASEAN Film, Video & Photography Festival?

To be held on June 14, the festival is open to independent and amateur filmmakers and photographers from all nationalities, as long as the theme of the works relate to Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries.

The deadline for entries is April 27, with the selected works to be screened in the Grand Ballroom of the J.W. Marriott hotel in Washington D.C.

The competition is organized by the Global Renaissance of ASEAN-AMERICAN Culture and Entertainment (Grace) heritage, a foundation established by two Indonesians residing in the U.S.

"We want to improve the image of ASEAN countries, which have been tarnished recently by the Bali bomb blast, as well as the announcement that Thailand is yet another country in the region to be infiltrated by a terrorist network," Karina Sudyatmiko, a freelance photographer who co-founded the heritage, told The Jakarta Post.

Southeast Asia was one of the world's most culturally rich regions, she said.

"We want to actively participate in restoring the region's cultural wealth through the festival. Only when we continue to promote its culture through the creative lens of young and talented individuals that the world will treasure Southeast Asia in this difficult time."

The event was also aimed at providing a venue for amateur film and photography students of Southeast Asian descent to showcase their talents, she said.

"We know how important it is for young filmmakers and photographers to gain exposure. This event is also aimed at encouraging people to explore Southeast Asian cultures and heritage."

There is no specific criteria for film entries. It can be a narrative, documentary, short or feature.

"There is no limit for duration and theme either. As long as the finance is private and independent," Karina said.

The juries are American filmmakers and experts on Asian cultures.

To compliment the event, there would also be live performances of Southeast Asian culture, such as bands or dance performances.

Winners will get US$1,750 for each category winner of film and video, and US$750 for each category of photography.

For more information and entry forms, go to www.thegraceheritage.org, email the committee at festival@thegraceheritage.org or call (202) 2623775.