Ohio Shorts 2021 Call for Entries

Since its beginning in 1996, Ohio Shorts has become known for presenting an eclectic mix of short work—from documentary, animation, or dramatic narrative to anything in-between. Last year’s program and award announcements, which streamed online for the first time, were watched by more than 3,000 viewers in 10 different countries.

The 25th edition of Ohio Shorts will be curated by Cincinnati-based artist Prentiss Haney, who is also co-executive director of Ohio Organizing Collaborative in Dayton. As a student at Stivers School for the Arts in Dayton, Haney presented his own work in Ohio Shorts in 2009. In his words, "being a part of Ohio Shorts was pivotal in my journey and development as an artist. It was one of the first times I saw my artistry amplified and celebrated publicly. Ohio Shorts creates space for artists to be celebrated for who they are and for the important stories they need to tell. My creative audacity grew because of Ohio Shorts. I hope other artists experience the same transformation."

We welcome and encourage submissions from all ages and experience levels! Works that are included in the program will receive a $50 screening fee and be eligible for the $500 Jury Award, selected by Prentiss Haney, and the $300 Audience Choice Award, which will be determined by online voting.

The deadline for entries has now been extended to 5 PM on Monday, March 8, 2021. One entry per person is permitted. All works must be submitted by Vimeo or YouTube URL and must be accompanied by an entry form. Works can be as short as 30 seconds but no longer than 20 minutes and must be produced in Ohio within the last 18 months (between June 2019 and January 2021). The full program will be announced by April 1, 2021.

An in-person screening will be held April 15, 2021, at the South Drive-In Theatre, and the program will also stream online April 17–May 1. Check back for more details!

For questions about Ohio Shorts 2021, whether they are technical or creative, please email ohioshorts@wexarts.org or call our Ohio Shorts hotline at (614) 813-3416.