Karen Helmerson, Director (212) 741-3003

The Electronic Media and Film Program is dedicated to furthering artistic growth and public engagement in the media arts. The Program supports a variety of activities that assist diverse constituents in the development and realization of film, video, sound art and new media programs and opportunities.

To ensure diversity within the media arts, we welcome and support a range of organizations including youth media, community communications centers, independent cinemas, museums and broadcasters. The Program has a long-standing commitment to creative exploration in all aspects of the media arts, including dialogue and film appreciation, professional development, new media and new modes of exhibition, distribution, and interdisciplinary work.

Priorities of the Program are

Appropriate compensation and recognition of the creative work of artists and arts professionals

Projects shaping new directions for new media and the Internet

Strong curatorial vision for Exhibition of existing and new work

New applicants are welcome to apply in the Exhibition and Workspace categories. Production funding for independent film and media artists is available through the Individual Artist Program. All applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with Program staff well in advance of the March registration deadline.

Interdisciplinary Projects

The Program offers support for interdisciplinary media activity to enable the creative potential of new technologies. The core tools and process must be electronic. Interdisciplinary work will be considered for support when there is a strong media arts component.

Evaluative Criteria

Grant requests in this Program are evaluated in accordance with the relevant agency-wide criteria.

Artistic Evaluation

The Council must be able to evaluate an applicant's artistic quality on an ongoing basis. It is the responsibility of all current and prospective applicants to inform the Program of screenings or workshops at least four weeks in advance of the event date. This is required so that staff, advisory panelists, or program auditors may attend and evaluate the events.