ELLSWORTH – Filmmakers in the early stages of their careers are encouraged to apply for the Maine Community Foundation’s Jane Morrison Film Fellowship. Up to two $1,000 to $2,000 scholarships will be awarded to filmmakers interested in obtaining further instruction in filmmaking. The deadline for applying is May 15; awards will be made in late July.

Attendance at film institutes or workshops can be an important step in developing an active film career. The Jane Morrison Memorial Film Fund was established to help filmmakers obtain this type of training.

Maine residents will receive preference, but the award is not restricted to residents of the state. The Morrison Fellowship is not open to filmmakers enrolled in post-secondary school.

Jane Morrison, creator of the films “The White Heron,” “Master Smart Woman” and the “The Two Worlds of Angelita,” died suddenly while on location in Africa. An Augusta native, Morrison began her career in filmmaking as an English teacher at Cony High School. While developing the film program there, she received training in filmmaking. She went on to pursue a full-time career as a filmmaker.

An advisory committee will select recipients. Applications will be judged on the quality of work and financial need. Applicants should seek funds to cover tuition, rather than living expenses. Completed applications should be sent to: Jane Morrison Memorial Film Fund, Maine Community Foundation, 245 Main St., Ellsworth 04605. For complete application guidelines, visit the foundation’s Web site at www.mainecf.org or call 1-877-700-6800.