Organizer Information
The LICHTER Filmfest Frankfurt International is a vibrant cultural festival that celebrates the diversity of regional and international filmmaking. Since its inception in 2008, the festival has grown into a significant event in the German film landscape, bridging the gap between traditional cinema and contemporary media art. One of its most distinguished features is the LICHTER Art Award, which was established in 2011 (with video art activities beginning earlier in 2010 and roots in the "Kunstlichter" initiative from 2008) to support and highlight the intersection of film and the visual arts—particularly through an international competition and curated exhibition focused on contemporary video art.
Title & Description
14th LICHTER Art Award
The LICHTER Art Award is an international competition aimed at contemporary artists working with moving images. The purpose of this opportunity is to seek out high-quality, innovative works that push the boundaries of artistic expression. The award is not bound by a specific theme, allowing for a broad range of creative interpretations and experimental approaches. Selected works are presented in a dedicated exhibition during the festival, providing artists with a curated space to experience their work in a professional artistic context. The program seeks to discover "unseen" works and bold artistic statements that challenge conventional viewing habits.
Categories
The competition is specifically designed for the following disciplines:
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Video/Film
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Visual Arts (Moving Image)
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Installation (Video-based)
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New Media
Eligibility
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International: The call is open to artists from all over the world.
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Format: Only works involving the moving image are eligible.
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Context: The award is open to both established and emerging artists.
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Independence: There are no restrictions on the year of production, though contemporary relevance is favored.
Program Benefits & Awards
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Cash Prize: The winner of the LICHTER Art Award receives a cash prize of €1,000.
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Exhibition: The five finalists will have their work exhibited at the LICHTER Filmfest Frankfurt International.
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Visibility: Finalists receive significant exposure through the festival’s press and promotional activities.
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Networking: Artists are invited to the festival, providing opportunities to connect with curators, filmmakers, and international guests.
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit their materials digitally, including:
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Preview Link: A stable link (Vimeo, YouTube, etc.) to the full work (with password if necessary).
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CV: A brief artistic biography.
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Portfolio: Documentation of previous works.
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Project Description: A short text explaining the concept and technical requirements for the installation.
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Stills: High-resolution images of the submitted work for publication purposes.
How to Apply?
Online ApplicationKey Dates
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Application Deadline: 19 January 2026
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Festival Dates: April 2026
Location
Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Additional Details
The jury, composed of renowned experts from the fields of art and film, selects the five finalists based on artistic quality and innovative strength. For the exhibition, the festival provides basic technical equipment, but artists with complex installation requirements are encouraged to coordinate with the festival technicians or provide their own specialized hardware. The LICHTER Art Award remains one of the few prizes in Germany specifically dedicated to the high-quality synthesis of cinema and visual art.
