VASTLAB Experimental 2027: Film, Video Art and Animation Worldwide, November 30 Deadline
VASTLAB, an artist-run multidisciplinary studio in Los Angeles, has opened submissions for its eighth experimental moving-image program, VLX8 / VASTLAB Experimental 2027. The deadline is November 30, 2026, with notifications expected December 13. The Los Angeles launch takes place February 20, 2027, and the organizer plans additional screenings in other cities through the year. International artists, emerging filmmakers and established video creators are welcome.
A call for unconventional moving images
The festival seeks experimental shorts, animation, artist video, projection, mixed audiovisual performance and work that crosses film, visual art and technology. Unfinished-looking, challenging or nontraditional projects can fit the curatorial approach when the work is ready for a public showing. Films can originate on Super 8, 16 mm or digital media, but selected screenings use digital projection. Previous festival screenings do not disqualify a work; there is no mandatory premiere status.
Ten-minute limit and required links
The standard maximum running time is ten minutes unless the organizer grants a written exception for a LIVEscore or installation project. Submit via FilmFreeway or the method it authorizes, with an accessible Vimeo, YouTube or other online screener. Passwords must be supplied and remain valid until February 2027. Physical screeners are not accepted. Selected artists will later provide a high-quality exhibition file, images and a brief promotion clip.
Application fees and the rights granted
A typical short-fiction, nonfiction or animation category entry costs US$15 at the regular deadline. Students and FilmFreeway Gold members are shown a US$10 rate for those categories; fees are nonrefundable. The exact category-specific price is the one shown in the live entry portal. Selection grants permission for multiple physical screenings on the VLX8 tour and use of short clips/stills for promotion. Artists retain authorship but must read the nonexclusive licensing provisions.
Organizer background
VASTLAB documents seven earlier experimental programs, exhibitions and live-score projects. The festival website and FilmFreeway listing give an identifiable Los Angeles venue, archive, filmmaker feedback and contact hello@vastlab.org. Its practice connects filmmakers, musicians, digital artists and visual experimenters without promising a salary, universal travel allowance or distribution deal for selected work.
Final entry: November 30, 2026. February 20, 2027 Los Angeles opening. Standard short submission US$15; student category example US$10.
Official organizer and application
Verified October 24, 2026. Check the organizer's latest terms, fees, deadlines and eligibility before applying.