In planning the 2008 Wings to the Spirit conference (May 1-4, 2008, Pensacola Beach, Florida) we are attempting to focus on art forms which we were unable to include in the 2007 conference. Noting that many young artists, both professional and amateur, are actively making films, it seemed that including a film festival would give us, as a Baha’i community, a fresh and broad view of this most modern and influential medium as a tool for spreading, both directly and indirectly, the principles and teachings of the Baha’i Faith.

The theme of Wings 2008 will be “Faith in Motion.” We are inviting submission of original and compelling short films (under 5 minutes) which present or support any aspect of the social, moral, ethical, or religious teachings of the Baha’i Faith, for public screening at the conference. The organizing group does not wish to limit the artists’ creativity by placing undue restrictions; however, as we encourage broad interpretation of the theme, we also encourage artists to remember the purpose and the audience by submitting films appropriate to the event.

There will be a professional and an amateur category. One need not be a Baha’i to submit a film; however, all submissions must be in keeping with Baha’i standards and principles. Films must have been completed since 2006.

We wanted to give a heads up to those interested. A complete set of guidelines will be available on the Wings website by November 15, 2007. The submission deadline will be March 15, 2008. There will be no submission fees and no cash prizes (though other awards will be made). Our purpose is very simply to be inspired by the broadest variety of models in which film, as an art form, can be used to spread, promote and support the principles and teachings of the Baha’i Faith to the world at large.