SPRING KICK OFF: SXSW, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND SPRING DEADLINES
Photo by Minnie Jackson
Spring has officially arrived in Texas, and there’s so much to look forward to. March brings approaching deadlines for our Make Something classes, new weekend workshops on the horizon, youth summer camp scholarships now open through the end of the month, and SXSW just around the corner — with a special appearance from us, too.
First up: the deadline for our Make Something quarterly project-based classes is almost here and spring is the perfect time to create with us.
Short film created in our Digital Filmmaking: Script to Screen 8-week Course
This quarter features a strong lineup, including the return of our Intro to Music Video Production course led by J. Manzo. Currently completing his MFA in Film Directing at the University of Texas, J. Manzo is a multidisciplinary filmmaker with experience spanning writing, directing, cinematography, and editing. His holistic approach to production makes him an exceptional guide for emerging creators.
We’re also excited to share that he will teach Digital Filmmaking: Script-to-Screen on Monday evenings this spring — perfect for students ready to dive into narrative filmmaking from concept to final cut.
These courses are ideal for aspiring filmmakers with little-to-no experience, as well as creatives who’ve made projects before but are looking for more structure, mentorship, and hands-on production support.
Registration deadline: March 27, 2026
Save 20% off your first course with us with special code SPRING2026
Short animation created in our 2025 Summer Animation Camp
Next up: Scholarship Applications are now open for our 2026 Youth Summer Filmmaking and Animation Camps.
Each summer, we bring together more than 40 middle and high school students from across Central Texas to learn, collaborate, and create original films and animations in a supportive, hands-on environment. Camps are led by industry professionals, feature guest artists and speakers, and culminate in weekly public screenings where families and friends gather to celebrate student work at the Canopy Art Complex in East Austin.
Whether you’re applying for a needs-based scholarship or general admission, all students must complete an application. Scholarship applications remain open through the end of March.
For families applying through general admission, we are down to just six remaining public spots, and camps are expected to fully enroll.
Our 2026 scholarships were made possible by Austin Optimist
And finally, in our lineup of creative gatherings—something for every curious mind: from SXSW EDU, where we help amplify powerful stories, to our Film Social, where the community gathers to celebrate recent work, to our debut pop-up workshop in vibrant Lockhart, and culminating in Cinemaker Connect’s “Revolution” studio meet-up—this is your cue to show up, make things happen, and be part of it all.
SXSW Edu Film Program - March 9, 10, 11
We are proud to share that our Executive Director, Faiza Kracheni, will moderate three film panels as part of the inaugural SXSW Edu Short Film Program. Across three days, this new program spotlights powerful short films from around the world exploring youth voice, mental health, justice, climate action, and the transformative power of storytelling — each followed by conversations with the filmmakers.
MONDAY SHOWCASE — Stories of Youth, Healing & Climate Action
A poetic journey of empowerment from a school shooting survivor, an intimate portrait of sisters navigating OCD during high school, and an inspiring look at young climate activists fighting for their future.
TUESDAY SHOWCASE — Voice, Innovation & Breaking Barriers
An animated series reshaping how we understand stuttering, Irish students attempting to launch their country’s first satellite, and a moving sports documentary exploring civil rights history through the story of Duke University’s first Black basketball player.
WEDNESDAY SHOWCASE — Reflection, Growth & Emotional Courage
Restorative justice storytelling from incarcerated men inside San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, alongside a tender portrait of teenage boys at a remote summer camp learning vulnerability, friendship, and emotional resilience.
Faiza will guide live Q&As with filmmakers and audiences following each screening.
Join us at the Austin Marriott Downtown — Waller Ballroom A
• Monday, March 9 — 1:30–2:40 PM
• Tuesday, March 10 — 1:30–2:30 PM
• Wednesday, March 11 — 1:25–2:30 PM
Portraits After Dark — Community Showcase - March 10, 11, 12
Natalie Howard, Education Manager by Chie Endo in our White Box Studio.
Our friends at Portraits After Dark are hosting a late-night art + film showcase and Austin School of Film community is warmly invited to be part of it.
On Night 2 (March 11), Natalie Howard, Education Manager at Austin School of Film, will offer a special welcoming talk introducing attendees to our programs, pathways, and creative community. She’ll share how artists at every stage can get involved and why independent, community-centered film schools like Austin School of Film play a vital role in keeping filmmaking education accessible, collaborative, and connected to local creative culture.
Hosted at RichesArt Gallery, this relaxed after-hours gathering brings filmmakers, photographers, students, and industry creatives together to connect, share work, and keep the conversations going beyond traditional screening rooms.
More Event Highlights
• Feature screenings + filmmaker commentary with Paul Sapiano, plus a short film by Nina Kazé
• Special talk featuring Texas Archive of the Moving Image
• Opening exhibition reception with visual artists Stellina Stampouli, Dax Norman, and Paul Lewis
Community Perk: Use code PAD-ASOF for 15% off tickets
Learn more:portraitsafterdark.art
Spellerberg Projects in Lockhart, Texas
Film Social — March 24
An open gathering for anyone in Austin interested in filmmaking, creative community, and learning more about our classes that is both free and open to the public. Meet fellow students and local filmmakers, and get a peek inside our studios. A perfect entry point to our artist-centered organization.
Pop-Up Workshop in Lockhart — March 28
We’re popping up in Lockhart for the very first time at Spellerberg Projects — a vibrant contemporary art space in one of Central Texas’s most charming creative towns.
Join us for a hands-on $25 16mm filmmaking workshop exploring tactile, analog image-making. Lockhart’s thriving arts scene makes it the perfect setting for a day of experimental filmmaking.
Cinemaker Connect — March 31
Our free quarterly studio meet-up returns with a Revolution theme.
Members and friends gather for cold drinks, good tunes, and creative conversation inside our production spaces. Meet photographers, filmmakers, artists, and collaborators from across Austin’s media arts community.