The California Arts Council is asking media outlets to show "Kids Come Alive with the Arts," an animated 30-second public service announcement that features voice-over by actor and California Arts Council member Annette Bening. The spot emphasizes the importance of the arts for children, and that funding from sales and renewals of the California Arts License Plate goes for arts programs for children and communities.

The 30-second PSA was initially created for the outdoor screen at the San Francisco International Film Festival in April/May 2007. The California Arts Council is indebted to all parties who donated their time and expertise to this project: Ms. Bening; Marc Graue and Andy Welker from Marc Graue Recording Studios in Los Angeles; sound designer Jimmy Bell, voice-over talent Chad Bell, and 3rd Bedroom Studios in Sacramento; video editor and designer Nicholas Maximytchev and the production and executive staff at Eye Candy Media; the San Francisco Film Society; California Arts Council graphic artist Theresa D'Onofrio; voice-over talent Katie Macintyre and her parents Kirsten and Corey Macintyre; and California artist Wayne Thiebaud, the creator of the Arts License Plate image.

Beta and DVD copies are available from the California Arts Council. Also available is a 30-second audio-only version for use on radio and other appropriate venues. CDs and email sound files are available from the California Arts Council. Contact Mary Beth Barber at (916) 322-6588 or mbarber@caartscouncil.com to request the video or audio PSA. Because kids come alive with the arts!