The upcoming 7th annual GIRAF (Giant Incandescent Resonation Animation Festival) runs in November at the Plaza Theatre in Calgary, Canada. GIRAF is committed to gaining greater awareness for animation as an art form, and celebrates the spirit of independent, underground, and experimental animation. The Festival is looking for Animation submissions, in all genres, lengths, and mediums. The festival programs are a strong eclectic mix of animation, representing the best of the medium from Claymation to CG. The focus is onpresenting independent animations that push boundaries through new techniques, unique visions, and stimulating subject matter.

Read more about The 7th Giant Incandescent Resonation Animation Festival (GIRAF) on Contest Watchers.

Launched in 2007, the Freedom to Create Prize is a celebration of the courage and creativity of artists, and the positive influence of their work to promote social justice and inspire the human spirit. The Prize is open to all forms of art, in any creative field and any individual or group of any gender, religion or nationality. In 2010, nearly 2,000 artists entered from more than 100 countries. In 2011, a total prize fund of US $100,000 will be awarded to the winning artists and their nominated advocacy organisations to further the cause their artwork has highlighted.

Read more about The 2011 Freedom To Create Youth Art Prize on Contest Watchers.