Over the past three Februarys, individuals have taken action in their communities-collectively building an international grassroots movement with noticeable impact.
It is your creativity, generosity, and hard work that have transformed the dark shadow that once hung over the important contributions women have made to our beloved horror genre into an ever broadening spotlight.
Where spaces don’t exist for the female artist/fan, you have carved them out. Where screens aren’t projecting films made by women, you made them appear. When media doesn’t cover the work of blood lusting ladies, you’ve created your own alternative news channels via blogs and podcasts.
All of this dedication congeals into 28 days of horror entertainment, networking, open dialogue, and the common goal of creating space for women who devote themselves to all facets of the film industry and to horror communities.
With the active participation of both men and women, we can keep the blood flowing — working together to ensure WiHM is something we can all be proud to stand behind this coming February.
The following suggestions are intended to inspire you for 2013. No prior experience necessary!
1. Launch a film screening in your community.
This can be small, like in your living room with friends, or as big as finding theater space and inviting the public. Don’t know where to start? No problem! We will soon post a blog on that very subject!
2. Host a reading for female horror writers.
Are you a horror fiction writer? Get some friends together and invite local writers to do a reading at a local bookstore or library. You can even have an open mic for the community to take part.
3. Host a panel discussion with local horror artists and fans.
You can get local horror artists and fans together and host a panel discussion about women in any and all facets of the horror universe. You can even contact your local college campus and reach out to the film and/or women’s studies departments.
4. Put on a horror art show.
Are you a visual artist or fan of horror artwork? Put out a call for submissions for an art show! You can hold it in your house for friends or talk to people who run public spaces such as libraries, bookstores, or galleries about your idea. Art could even be auctioned with the money going to a charity of your choice.
5. Create a skillshare event/workshop for women in your community.
Are you excellent with horror FX/Makeup? Put together a workshop teaching other women your special skill. You could even host a horror fashion show to show off your GOREgeous new look!
6. Create something!
Make a short film, write a short story, learn how to make creepy dolls, or work on that article you’ve been meaning to write. Use your imagination. Have fun!
7. Use your blog and/or podcast to participate.
You can do one post or even a full series on any aspect of women and horror during the month of February. This may include interviews, write ups on female horror characters, fiction/non fiction writers, there is no limit! Don’t think you will have the ability to blog during February? Help spread the word by reposting/sharing other blog posts you enjoy with your friends.
8. Make a Public Service Announcement (PSA).
Create a short video PSA with a horror twist encouraging people to give blood or to hold a clothing or food drive (any cause that is important to you)! This could be a great way to pick up a camera for the first time while sending out an important message.
9. Write letters to media outlets.
Write to your local newspaper, magazines, or online media outlet and tell them what WiHM is all about. Inform them of the message and how you want to see more women in the horror industry be represented in their pages.
10. Think outside the box.
In 2011, horror fan and festival founder, Jennifer Cooper, dyed her hair red and encouraged others to follow suit for Feb. The possibilities are endless!
Hannah Neurotica
Founder, Director of Operations
Women in Horror Recognition Month
www.womeninhorrormonth.com
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Do you have a great idea not listed? Share your thoughts with us! And stay tuned for upcoming Tumblr posts containing tips, first person accounts, and how-to’s for everyone who wants to get something off the ground this February. We can’t wait to see what you come up with!