Helping artists & storytellers learn, make, and find their people since 0.
A community film school, accessible studios, residencies for those who've never had one, workforce training and youth programs — breaking barriers and keeping independent artmaking alive, one frame at a time.
Diversifying the industry doesn't happen by chance. It happens when you build the infrastructure on purpose.
Our programs model the value of film & media arts in everyday lives and dreams for the future.
We support underrepresented voices and first-generation media artists & filmmakers — ensuring they thrive in a supportive, sustainable ecosystem.
For people to learn, for working artists to grow, for underrepresented talent to be seen.
We run Austin School of Film — Texas's longest-running community school for film, photo, animation, and media art.
100+ classes & workshops a year across every level — led by industry professionals and teaching artists. From filmmaking, photography, animation, experimental media, analog darkroom practice, creative technology, and more.
We've been hosting youth summer camps since 1999 — that's how we got our start.
Beginners always always welcome — no prerequisites, no pretension.
Browse classes →We keep CINEMAKER Studios open to filmmakers, photographers, musicians, and media artists at community prices.
Membership-based access to professional lighting, backdrops, props, and the odds & ends that are a pain to lug around — apple boxes, c-stands, gels, the whole shabang.
Every month we host over 400 creative sessions here — from film shoots to photo work, music video production, album covers, artist portfolios, dance films, and commercial work.
Become a member →We build pathways for media artists & filmmakers at every stage.
Artist Access — six months of workforce development for emerging media artists, with job training, networking, an education stipend, and free studio access.
Artists in Motion — a six-month residency for media artists who've never had one. Because everyone has to have their first experience somehow.
Two Artists × Six Months — our 2026 experiment: two local artists, free CINEMAKER access, no deliverables, no strings.
Film & Friends Showcase — an exhibition platform that puts our community's work in front of audiences.
Explore artist programs →What's happening now.
Take a class
100+ classes a year across film, photo, animation, sound, and screenwriting. New sessions roll out year-round — beginner-friendly and open to everyone. No prerequisites.
Browse classes & check deadlines →
Film Forward Certificate
14 courses. 100+ hours. Three finished films or media projects. The deepest version of what Austin School of Film offers — for students ready to commit to the craft.
Learn more →
Artist Access
Six months of earn-and-learn: $2,000 education fund, 1-year studio membership, on-site job training, and real mentorship. For emerging media artists ready to build a sustainable practice.
Learn more →
Film & Friends Showcase
Our bi-annual screening series celebrating bold, original work from emerging filmmakers in our project-based courses. Summer 2026 submissions open through June 1.
Submit your film →
Artists in Motion
A six-month residency for media artists who've never had one. Free Cinemaker access, up to 2 classes, funding for a final public event. Designed for artists who've historically been locked out of residency opportunities.
Learn more →The Local
Talent Roster.
The Roster
Our brand-new digital directory of Austin filmmakers, photographers, and media artists who train, teach, and make their work at MMAC. Filter, find, hire local. Built for casting, crewing, and creative collaboration.
Explore the Roster →Austin's community-rooted home for film & media arts.
Building creative infrastructure, expanding public access, and developing the next generation of independent artists and filmmakers across Central Texas.
We provide film and media arts education, professional studio access, artist residencies, and youth programs to the underrepresented communities the creative industry was not built for — so that independent storytellers have everything they need to make their work real.