The Oscar Devereaux Micheaux Black Film, Art, and Books Festival
celebrates Black arts in the heart of Paducah, Kentucky — a UNESCO Creative City with a rich legacy of African American history, creativity, and cultural exchange.
Co-produced by the Paducah Historical Preservation Group, Inc. and the Kentucky BIPOCU Filmmakers Association, the festival honors the life and legacy of Oscar Devereaux Micheaux, the pioneering Black filmmaker born near Paducah whose work helped shape the future of American cinema.
Created with intention, the BFAB Festival brings together filmmakers, authors, artists, historians, educators, and audiences to celebrate stories that inform, inspire, challenge, and connect communities. Through film screenings, author showcases, artist exhibitions, book sales, cultural conversations, and a special presentation of Micheaux’s historic work, the festival highlights the power of Black creative expression across generations.
Set against the backdrop of Paducah’s vibrant arts community — home to the National Quilt Museum, the Lowertown Arts District, and the historic Hotel Metropolitan, a Green Book site that welcomed legendary Black musicians and travelers — the festival invites guests to experience creativity, history, and community in one unforgettable gathering.
The Oscar Devereaux Micheaux BFAB Festival welcomes submissions of short films, animated works, documentaries, and feature films exploring historical, educational, scientific, cultural, and social awareness themes.
Submission Open Until July 15th — Submit early To save your spot!
Location: Paducah, KY
