We support filmmakers and creatives of color in Arkansas.

The Micheaux Award & Film Labs (MAFL) is establishing pathways to sustainable careers in film and media for Arkansas creatives of color.

Our initiatives include the Micheaux Award, providing $50,000 in direct funding to local creatives since 2020 - Micheaux Labs, offering hands-on education and production training with industry experts - and Micheaux Social gatherings, which build community and professional development for creative communities across the state.

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“Your self-image is so powerful it unwittingly becomes your destiny.”

OSCAR MICHEAUX

MICHEAUX LABS

THE MICHEAUX AWARD

MICHEAUX SOCIALS

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MAFL & Clinton School Research Arkansas Filmmaking Landscape

Clinton School Practicum Team Kaleidoscope: Dailyn Davis (Chicago, Ill.), Lauryn Durby (Fayetteville, Ark.), Trinity Lisk (North Little Rock, Ark.), Chloe Stringer (Austin, Texas), Jalen Humphreys (Memphis, Tenn.) pictured with Dr. Synetra Hughes (center)

The Micheaux Award & Film Labs (MAFL) is on a mission to create sustainable career pathways in film and media for creatives of color in Arkansas.

In partnership with the Clinton School of Public Service, MAFL worked to document and better understand the landscape for creatives of color throughout Arkansas. This collaborative research project conducted throughout spring 2025, aimed to uncover challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions for supporting creative communities in often overlooked regions.

View ‘REEL VOICES,’ the Clinton School research team findings here!

Together, we’re building a more accessible and vibrant future for film and media in Arkansas.

Be the Change You Want to See!
The future of creative spaces, funding, and opportunities in Arkansas starts with YOUR input. HUGE THANKS TO ALL WHO CONTRIBUTED TO THE SURVEY!

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The Micheaux Award is designed to support and encourage creation and authorship of Arkansas-based projects from filmmakers of color through strategic funding opportunities.

MAFL EVENTS

Micheaux Film Labs: El Dorado Community Events

March 2026 | El Dorado, Arkansas

The Micheaux Award & Film Labs brought storytelling, creativity, and community connection to El Dorado, Arkansas for a special day celebrating emerging voices in film and media.

Owning Your Voice Film Lab

Aspiring storytellers, students, and community members participated in the Owning Your Voice Film Lab: Developing Your Leadership Through Storytelling.

This interactive workshop explored how storytelling can be used as a powerful tool for leadership, communication, and creative expression. Participants engaged with hands-on activities and discussions designed to help them discover their voice and shape their own stories for film, media, and community impact.

Micheaux Community Social

Later that evening, we hosted a Micheaux Social at the El Dorado Conference Center—a welcoming gathering that highlights creativity, connection, and the future of filmmaking in Arkansas.

This free event connected filmmakers, students, artists, and community members to celebrate emerging talent, share ideas, and build new relationships within the creative community.

These events were made possible through the support of the MurMil Education Center and the Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation, whose partnership helps empower the next generation of storytellers. Thank you again!

CONGRATULATIONS 2026 MICHEAUX AWARD RECIPIENTS!

The Micheaux Award honors excellence in film, media, and the arts, aiming to empower and uplift diverse voices in the industry. MAFL celebrates the 2026 Micheaux Award recipients whose work challenges boundaries, celebrates cultural narratives, and drives impactful conversations.

MAFL is honored to recognize those upholding the legacy, inspiration and pioneering spirit of Oscar Micheaux.