CALL FOR PROPOSALS: INTERNATIONAL VIDEO COMPETITION FOR CULTURAL HERITAGE CRIME PROJECT

Objective

The Art Crime Project APS is launching an international call for videomakers to propose and create three video clips (pills) focused on cultural heritage crime. This initiative is fostered by the European project RITHMS (https://rithms.eu), dedicated to combating illicit trafficking of cultural goods, and will be part of an awareness raising campaign that will also include video clips tailored around Italian heritage crime experience.
Drawing from the foreseen project’s case-studies, the selected provider will realise 3 videos highlighting relevant aspects of the criminal phenomenon in partner countries.

Background

This competition aims to produce a series of videos that will educate and inform about the issues and solutions related to cultural heritage crime. We seek innovative and engaging proposals that utilise various media means, including filmed content, 2D or 3D animations, and mixed media formats. The videos will be produced in English and will ideally feature experiences from RITHMS Consortium partners.

Video Topics

Applicants are required to propose concepts for 3 video pills, selecting from the following topics related to European landscape:

1. Modern and Contemporary Art Thefts in Spain
2. Treasure Hunting: The Use of Amateur Metal Detectors
3. Major Art Fairs (Tefaf, BRAFA, London Art Fair)
4. Clandestine Excavations and Loss of Cultural Heritage in Romania/Bulgaria/Moldova/Bosnia
5. Destruction and Looting of Cultural Heritage in Ukraine
6. The Phenomenon of Nazi-Looting in Europe

For the overall context and to avoid overlapping, please note that the Italian video pills will cover:

1. The Great Raid of Archaeological Goods in Italy (Medici, Becchina cases)
2. Recovered and Returned Goods: Italian Cultural Diplomacy
3. Future and Technology: Innovations Developed in Italy to Tackle Illicit Trafficking

Requirements

1. Eligibility: Open to professional videomakers and artists internationally.
2. Language: Videos must be produced in English.
3. Format: Proposals can include filmed content, 2D or 3D animations, or other effective media forms.
4. Content: Each proposal must include:
   • A video reel showcasing the applicant’s previous work (maximum 5 minutes).
   • A concept note (maximum one page) detailing the proposed approach for the three selected video topics.

Submission Guidelines

1. Proposal Submission: Interested candidates must submit their proposals via email to info@artcrimeproject.org
2. Documentation: Each submission should include:
   • A brief biography of the applicant(s).
   • A video reel (maximum 5 minutes) showcasing previous relevant work.
   • A concept note (maximum one page) for the three selected video topics, outlining the narrative approach and proposed medium.
3. Deadline: Proposals must be submitted no later than August 30th, 2024.

Selection Process

• Initial Screening: Proposals will be reviewed based on relevance, creativity, feasibility, and the experience demonstrated in the video reel.
• Interviews: 3 to 4 shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to discuss their proposals in more detail.
• Budget Proposal: Shortlisted candidates will be asked to propose a budget quotation for realising their ideas. The maximum budget for each video is €2,796 gross.

Selection Criteria

• Relevance: How well the proposal addresses the chosen topics and objectives.
• Creativity: Originality and innovation in the approach and format.
• Feasibility: Practicality and clarity of the execution plan.
• Experience: Demonstrated expertise in producing high-quality video content.
• Quotation: Best offer will be privileged in case of equal technical and artistic value.

Engagement Terms

The engagement for producing the videos in English will be based on this international call for proposals. Selected candidates will be compensated appropriately for their work upon mutual agreement and successful completion of the project.

Contact Information

For further information, please visit our website at https://www.artcrimeproject.org/rithms, the EU project website at https://rithms.eu or contact us at info@artcrimeproject.org.

We look forward to receiving your creative and impactful proposals to help raise awareness and combat the illicit trafficking of cultural heritage.

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Download the call here.