(Courtesy of JWI) Digital Storytellers Lab of the Jewish Writers’ Initiative and Maimonides Fund have formally issued a request for proposals in search of digital media artists for an eight-month fellowship that gives digital storytellers the opportunity to kickstart the development of new, narrative digital audio/visual media exploring Jewish themes. The Lab empowers creators to tell innovative and diverse Jewish stories in digital-first ways. The program provides fellows with a stipend, mentorship and technical and subject-matter expertise to support the development of their projects. The application process began April 1, 2022, and all applications must be submitted by June 1, 2022.
The program aims to empower and develop U.S.-based digital artists including social media creators, short-form screenwriters and podcast visionaries to help them create compelling, commercially viable projects that explore Jewish identity, culture, values, heritage, religion, spirituality or history for mainstream audiences on digital media platforms like YouTube, Reels, TikTok, Webtoon and podcasts.
“This storyteller lab is our way of compelling lesser-known Jewish stories,” Janine Okmin, JWI program director, said. “With the support of leading artists and experts, this is a rare opportunity for new media artists who want to develop and tell diverse new Jewish stories, retell familiar ones in new ways. We are excited to see and share these new stories for modern mediums, and know they will become as timeless as the stories that have nourished the souls and character of the Jewish people for centuries.”
Up to 12 storytellers will be selected for the inaugural run. Those selected will work with program staff and mentors to create an individualized plan for project development, enabling them to successfully pitch backers, brand partners and distributors.
The Digital Storytellers Lab will also offer artists opportunities to consult with experts on their projects’ unique subject matter. Bringing firsthand sources and academics into their process will aid writers in their research and help them realize dynamic and authentic stories.
Writers will each receive a non-exclusive stipend of $20,000 to support them throughout their creative venture, with access to additional production resources if needed.
Applications to the Jewish Writers’ Initiative can be submitted here:
https://www.jwinitiative.com/digitalstorytellers
