OPEN SCREEN: THE FORUM 2025
Co-presented by Public Functionary x Cinefilmu
Open Screen: The Forum is a three-week gathering of filmmakers, photographers, and artists who see image-making as a means for connection, resistance, and cultural storytelling at Public Functionary from May 1 - May 18. The Forum is a response – an open, generative space for voices that often go unheard, stories that are often untold, and artists who are shaping the future of film and photography in real-time.
Rooted in the tradition of Open Screen, this gathering continues the spirit of accessibility, experimentation, and creative exchange, providing a necessary space for dialogue, visibility, and action at a time when creatives and communities face increasing challenges. Through screenings, workshops, panels, and an installation, The Forum centers QTBIPOC, immigrant, and underrepresented voices in film and photography. Here, storytelling isn’t just about what’s on the screen – it’s about who is in the room, how we gather, and what we create together.
Open Screen: The Forum is a place to build community, exchange ideas, and imagine new possibilities for storytelling.
WHO IS IT FOR?
Filmmakers, moving image artists, photographers, activists, cultural workers, film enthusiasts, artists
WHAT IS IT?
A space to screen and share works-in-progress, experiments, and completed films
A platform for QTBIPOC filmmakers, emerging voices, and independent storytellers
A place to connect with fellow artists, find collaborators, and discuss work
A forum for discussing media as a tool for resistance and social change
A festival that breaks traditional formats and invites conversation, interaction, and response
WHEN:
May 1 - May 18.
Most sessions: screenings, workshops and panels happen over Weekend 1 (May 1 - 3) and Weekend 2 (May 8 - 11). Weekend 3 (May 15-18) wraps up the gathering with a Feature Narrative Screening and open gallery hours to view YAGASAGA’s scenic installation over Art-A-Whirl weekend.
WHERE:
Public Functionary (1500 Jackson Street NE, Minneapolis) at Northrup King Building.
Screenings and panels take place in the PF Main Gallery (Studio 144) and workshops are in PF Upstairs Gallery (Studio 247). All sessions are FREE. Workshops require advance sign-up as spaces are limited.