August 30, 2012 marks a momentous day in the history of online cat videos. The Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is coaxing fans of feline YouTube capers out from behind their computer screens and out into the open. More specifically, these cat video lovers can stalk out into Open Field, the Walker’s big, green lawn transformed every summer into a “cultural commons.” This Walker’s Education and Community Programs staff originated the idea and organized the first-ever Internet Cat Video Film Festival.
Experience the joy of a surprised kitten or keyboard cat together. Participate in this experiment that tests the social boundaries of the online community with a live, off-line [sic] event as we attempt to gather in physical space and real time to enjoy one of the internet’s most popular phenomena.
Nominations closed July 30, but have no fear – with over 7,000 submissions, your favorite internet feline probably made its way into the submissions. Although the festival creators aim for an event more inclusive than exclusive, they are narrowing down submissions to present a one-hour selection of videos that best represents the vast pool of nominees. Selected videos will be presented in categories such as comedy, documentary, animated, and foreign film.
To include cat lovers worldwide who may not be able to attend the festival, anyone could see the top five nominees and vote for their favorite August 6 through 10. The festival will close with a countdown of these five videos, culminating in an award for “Best Picture” going to the video with the most votes. During the festival, viewers can also tweet in votes for their favorite cat flick using the hashtag #catvidfest. The Walker Art Center will announce a winner for a “People’s Choice Award” online after the festival.
Staff members at the Walker organize some events, while local organizations or individuals set up other gatherings. All Open Fields events are free and open to the public. So, you won’t have to pay a cent to attend this festival that’ll allow you to see more cats stuck in boxes and different variations on the Nyan cat than you could ever dream would be possible.
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