Description:
The Sundance Institute Merata Mita Fellowship for Indigenous Artists pays tribute to the immense artistic contributions and memory of Merata Mita (Ngāti Pikiao/Ngāi Te Rangi). Merata served as an advisor and artistic director to Sundance Institute’s Native Filmmakers Lab from 2000 to 2009, where she mentored and developed some of the top Indigenous talent in today’s film industry. In her time as a screenwriter and director, she was the first Māori woman to solely write and direct a dramatic feature film.
This fellowship serves to continue Merata Mita’s legacy and to cultivate a stage for other Indigenous women around the world to tell their stories. Fellows will be awarded cash grants and a yearlong continuum of support with activities, including a trip to the Sundance Film Festival, access to strategic and creative services offered by Sundance Institute artist programs, and mentorship opportunities.

Eligibility:
This opportunity is open to U.S.-based and international Indigenous artists who identify as women and are endeavoring to direct a feature film.

Apply:
The application is now open.
Deadline:
Monday, October 28, 2024, 3:30 p.m. PT/4:30 p.m. MT/6:30 p.m. ET

Notification Date:
Early December 2024

*Dates/Location:
January–February 2025, Sundance Film Festival, Park City, UT - TBD

Application Requirements:
*In-person gatherings pending. There is no application fee. If you have additional questions, please contact indigenous_program@sundance.org.