SIFF RECEIVES NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS ART WORKS GRANT TO SUPPORT 40TH ANNUAL SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

SEATTLE, WA- National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Acting Chairman Joan Shigekawa announced on December 11, 2013 that SIFF is one of 895 nonprofit organizations nationwide to receive an NEA Art Works grant. SIFF is recommended for a $30,000 grant to support the 40th Annual Seattle International Film Festival, the largest award yet granted to the organization.

The Seattle International Film Festival (May 15 - June 8, 2014) is the largest, most highly attended film festival in the United States, reaching more than 150,000 annually. Recognized as one of the top film festivals in North America, the 25-day festival is renowned for its wide-ranging and eclectic programming, presenting over 250 features and 150 short films from over 70 countries each year. Carl Spence, SIFF's Artistic Director, says, "We're extremely honored to receive this grant. As we plan our 40th anniversary Festival, it's especially meaningful to us; receiving this support ensures that filmmakers' work - for both our annual Festival and year-round programming - can continue to be celebrated as it is meant to be seen on the big screen." Art Works grants support the creation of art that meets the highest standards of excellence: public engagement with diverse and excellent art, lifelong learning in the arts, and enhancing the livability of communities through the arts. The NEA received 1,528 eligible Art Works applications, requesting more than $75 million in funding. Of those applications, 895 are recommended for grants for a total of $23.4 million. Acting Chairman Shigekawa said, "The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support these exciting and diverse arts projects that will take place throughout the United States. Whether it is through a focus on education, engagement, or innovation, these projects all contribute to vibrant communities and memorable experiences for the public to engage with the arts." 

For a complete listing of projects recommended for Art Works grant support, please visit the NEA website at arts.gov.