May 9 & 10, 2026
The Unspooled Film and Animation Festival is a juried annual event in Menomonie, Wisconsin featuring work made by regional and international independent storytellers. Unique films and animations are screened at the historic Harvey Hall Theatre on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Stout.
It's a vibrant gathering where film lovers, students, and seasoned professionals connect, share, and get inspired. Through our incredible lineup of film screenings, hands-on workshops, and engaging guest speakers, we're building a supportive space for every storyteller to thrive.
Emerging and seasoned storytellers are invited to be a part of the festival by submitting their films in a variety of categories. The two-day festival showcases selected projects and creates opportunities for filmmakers, students, and community members to network and share their passion for film and animation.
2026 Theme: Celebrating Design in Cinema
This year, the Unspooled Film & Animation Festival is proud to be a signature event of the School of Art & Design's 60th Anniversary Celebration! Our theme, "60 Years of Design in Motion," honors the deep legacy of creativity and innovation that has defined our institution. For six decades, UW-Stout has been a place where art and technology converge, and this festival celebrates that unique "hands-on, minds-on" spirit.
We are showcasing student filmmakers and animators as the next wave of visionaries, inheriting a 60-year tradition of shaping the future. This is a celebration of the past, present, and future of storytelling, putting a spotlight on how our polytechnic distinction prepares creators to lead and innovate in the ever-evolving world of cinema.
Our 2026 Goals:
- Honor Our 60-Year Legacy: Celebrate the anniversary of the School of Art & Design by featuring films and animations that embody our core values of innovation, craftsmanship, and creative problem-solving.
- Champion Polytechnic Storytelling: Highlight how a unique balance of fine art, design, and technology results in groundbreaking work.
- Bridge Generations of Creators: Facilitate meaningful connections at networking events (Nonic and Zymurgy) between current students, celebrated alumni, and leaders who are shaping today's creative landscape.
- Showcase Emerging Talent: Present a juried selection of bold new works—from experimental shorts to animated features—that demonstrate fresh perspectives and technical excellence.
- Inspire the Next Generation: Host hands-on workshops for secondary students, inviting them to experience UW-Stout's dynamic, hands-on learning environment firsthand.
- Learn from Pioneers: Feature notable guest speakers and distinguished faculty and students.
- Celebrate Excellence in Design: Offer juried awards that specifically recognize outstanding achievement in storytelling, technical skill, and innovative design, reinforcing our identity as a premier institution for the arts.