New York, NY– April Anderson and the Art As Air Project have won a total of six prestigious Awards of Merit from three Film Competitions for their documentary short "Beyond The Paint," featuring NY artist Andy Golub:

Best Shorts Film Competition:

Award of Merit: Women Filmmakers
Award of Merit: Documentary Short
Award of Merit: Use of Film / Video for Social Change

Impact Docs Awards:

Award of Merit: Documentary Short
Award of Merit: Contemporary Issues/Awareness Raising

Docs Without Borders Film Festival:

Award of Exceptional Merit: Documentary Short

"'Beyond The Paint' began as a small project about the art of bodypainting and the artist Andy Golub. During the filming, it became clear that we were getting into something so much larger and more important," said Executive Producer April Anderson. "This is about the human side and what motivates people to use art as a form of communication and connection. In the words of the late, great lyricist Hal David, it's 'what the world needs now.' To be awarded like this is an honor beyond measure, and we are incredibly grateful."

The first awards were especially significant having come from Best Shorts Competition, as they were geared toward recognizing film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. Information about Best Shorts and a list of recent winners can be found at www.BestShorts.net.

In winning a Best Shorts Award, the Art As Air Project joins the ranks of other high-profile winners of this internationally respected award including The Weinstein Company for "Market Hours," Disney Interactive for "Vinlymation: A Love Story" and Oscar winning production "Mr. Hublot" from Laurent Witz from Luxembourg.

Rick Prickett, who chairs The Best Shorts Competition, had this to say about the latest winners, "Best Shorts is not an easy award to win. Entries are received from around the world from powerhouse companies to remarkable new talent. The Best Shorts Competition helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptional high quality of entries. The goal of Best Shorts is to help winners achieve the recognition they deserve."