For 18 years, Arkansas Shorts has brought powerful, personal storytelling to the screen, celebrating the diverse voices of filmmakers from our region. This year, we are excited to announce that the festival will evolve with a new name: Persistence of Vision (POV) Film Festival.

This year we will showcase over 85 films, but now with even more exciting additions: feature films, documentaries, panels, workshops, parties, and special guests. The POV Fest is more than just a celebration of film; it's about creating a space where storytellers can connect, grow, and be inspired. It’s a place where diverse perspectives thrive and where the power of individual voices can spark new ideas and collaborations.

Why support the arts?
Supporting the arts helps foster an environment where personal, individual stories can thrive. By contributing, you're not just donating goods; you're investing in the creative spirit of our community and helping make art accessible to everyone. POV Fest is more than just a film screening; it’s about bringing together diverse voices, sparking new collaborations, and providing a platform for filmmakers to grow and connect. Your support helps create a space for courageous storytelling and nurtures the next generation of filmmakers.

We are deeply grateful for your support in making POV Fest a success! Together, we can continue to enrich our creative community and bring the world of filmmaking to life.

  • Support

    Your support is crucial in making this event accessible to all. By donating, you help us nurture our creative community, provide a platform for emerging talent, and ensure that art remains a vital part of our shared culture. We believe in the power of storytelling to change lives, and with your generosity, we can continue to offer this incredible experience to filmmakers and audiences alike.

    Join us in making POV Fest a reality. Your contribution ensures that creative voices are heard, art is accessible, and the magic of storytelling continues to thrive.

    DONATION WILL SUPPORT:

    Travel Assistance for out of state filmmakers.

    Cash Prizes for Filmmakers

    Event Expenses (staff, venues)

    Event Supplies

    Donate today and help us bring the world of film to life at POV Fest 2025!

    DONATE

  • Volunteer

    We are looking for passionate volunteers to help make this year’s POV Fest a success. Whether you’re assisting with box office duties, providing theater support, helping with merchandise sales, or assisting at events, your contribution will directly impact the festival experience and help us make art accessible to all.

    Why volunteer? Because this festival is not just about films; it's about supporting the creative community, nurturing storytellers, and providing a platform for voices that matter. Your time and energy will help foster an environment where filmmakers and audiences can connect, learn, and grow together.

    By volunteering, you are helping to create an event that will continue to empower and inspire the next generation of filmmakers and artists. Your support ensures that the art of storytelling remains a vital and cherished part of our community.

    Volunteer roles available:

    Box Office

    Theater Operations

    Merch Sales

    Event Volunteers

    Media Team

    Drivers

    Volunteer

  • In-Kind Donations

    We believe in the transformative power of the arts, and it is vital to ensure that everyone has access to the creative experiences that art and film provide. Your support helps make this festival possible, and we are seeking in-kind donations to help bring our vision to life.

    How can you help?

    We are seeking donations of the following:

    Food & Catering: Provide meals, snacks, or catering services for filmmakers, volunteers, and attendees.

    Filmmaker Gift Bag Items: Donations of products or services that can be included in our filmmaker gift bags. This is a wonderful way to showcase your business while supporting our creative community.

    Housing for Filmmakers: Offering accommodations for out-of-town filmmakers is a critical way to support our festival and help ensure filmmakers can attend and share their work.

    Venues for Parties & Events: Host a special gathering or party for our filmmakers and festival guests! This provides a fun and relaxed space for networking, creativity, and celebration.

    In return for your generosity, all in-kind donations are tax-deductible, and we will gladly recognize your support on our website, festival program, and social media channels.

    In-Kind Donations