Distribution Program

Canyon Cinema was incorporated as an artist-run film distribution co-op in 1967, owned and operated by filmmaker members. In 2012 the membership voted to become a nonprofit, and in 2014 Canyon Cinema Foundation (CCF) began operating as a 501c3 organization. Today, CCF continues to serve as an essential resource for educators, curators, researchers, and enthusiasts through our robust distribution program and online catalog. Our unique collection of artist-made films – comprising digital media, 8mm, Super 8, 16mm, and 35mm prints – traces the vital history of the experimental and avant-garde filmmaking movements over the past century. With a strong emphasis on American West Coast and San Francisco Bay Area filmmakers, we are the access point to more than 4000 ground-breaking works, representing 300 artists.

CCF is a non-exclusive distributor; all rights for the works we represent are retained by the artists, including the right to self-distribution and promotion. We distribute worldwide; our core clients and markets include educational institutions, film/video and new media festivals, art galleries and museums, microcinemas, and community organizations. 50 percent of all fees from rentals and 80 percent of all sales are remitted to the artist. Artists determine the rates for their work or can opt for Canyon-recommended standardized pricing. There is no minimum term; agreements can be discontinued at any time.

Artist services include: circulation of Super 8, 16mm, and 35mm motion picture film prints as well as digital media for screenings, exhibitions, and classroom use; filling of orders; shipping, handling, and return tracking of orders; invoicing of clients; collection of distribution fees; annual itemized reporting and payout; and marketing and promotion of artists’ work. We provide streaming access for individual and institutional use to a growing number of titles through our own digital distribution program and through our partnerships with Kanopy, Kinoscope, PARACME, and Projectr. Canyon’s services also include sales of film prints, DVDs, Blu-rays, and digital files for individual and/or institutional use.

To learn more about Canyon Cinema’s distribution program and artist services, please email: info@canyoncinema.com

For information about submitting work for distribution, visit:
https://canyoncinema.com/artists/submissions/