NMDCA News:

LAS CRUCES — Filmmakers are invited to create short films rooted in agriculture, ranching, and rural heritage for the New Mexico Heritage Short Film Contest in collaboration with the Las Cruces International Film Festival (LCIFF).  

“This short film contest is truly important because it preserves and elevates stories of agriculture, ranching, and rural heritage through film, ensuring these lived experiences remain visible and relevant to future generations,” Eric Kirker, contest director and New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum (NMFRHM) Exhibit Designer, said. 

Since film is a prominent industry in the state, Kirker urges New Mexicans to be proud of their cultural heritage and share their stories through contemporary filmmaking. 

Participants and their crew must attend (in-person or virtually) the kickoff event on Wednesday, Jan. 14 from 4-6 p.m. at the Museum at 4100 Dripping Springs Road. Genres will be assigned and the mandatory cultural phrase to be used in the films will be unveiled at this event. Feb. 2 is the early bird deadline to pay the $10 participation fee for standard entries and students, with the regular deadline Feb. 27 for a $15 fee. 

Official rules and more information can be found at: https://filmfreeway.com/NMFarmandRanchHeritageFilmContest.  

The films will be judged for award categories including Best Director, Cinematographer, Use of Phrase, Story, Originality, and Sound. Films can be up to 10 minutes in length and any music used must be licensed or original.  

Selected films will be revealed and trophies for first, second, and third place will be awarded at the LCIFF Poster Reveal Party on March 6 at the Museum.   

“Stories are how we measure, understand, and share our lives, “Ross Marks, LCIFF executive director, said. 

“Film is the most powerful storytelling medium. By supporting local storytellers, we elevate and enrich our community. I am excited to partner with the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in an effort to support local storytellers and help them explore their own voices and grow through film.”   

Filmmakers can contact Contest Director Eric Kirker at eric.kirker@dca.nm.gov for more information.   

About the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum  

The New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces is a division of the Department of Cultural Affairs. The 47-acre interactive museum brings to life the 4,000-year history of growing food and fiber in this region. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, it features livestock, indoor and outdoor exhibits, barns, greenhouse, gift shop, and demonstrations. The Museum is supported by the Friends of the New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. www.nmfarmandranchmuseum.org