Plan B – Call for Entry – Amy Parrish: artist, writer, photographer

Myself, and I know so many others, have livelihoods tied to the ability to be able to move around, connect with people, and continually make work (there’s no residual income for independent photographers unless you sell educational or stock content). Within a week, one friend has lost half of his annual income due to lost projects and I know others are scrambling to come up with a Plan B during this time of uncertainty. But I believe we can pull through if we work together.

I found myself getting swallowed up by the negativity and spread of misinformation on Facebook. After stepping away for a couple of days to find some clarity, I’ve set a simple goal– to be resourceful and share opportunities with other creatives who may be struggling or worried right now.

If you are a photo-based artist, here are a few opportunities for exhibitions right now that are free-of-charge (hover for links):

Candela Unbound 9 (deadline 4/13)
Lenscratch #self-quarantining (deadline 3/26)
Lenscratch – annual open call for submissions (3/23 – 3/28)
Analog Forever – Light (deadline 3/31)
The Curated Fridge (postmarked mail by 3/28)
Lunch Ticket …for writers, too! (deadline 3/31)

ADDED: Underexposed – On Winter’s Margin (for female-identifying artists)
ADDED on 3/24: One Twelve – Internal Dialogue (deadline 4/20)

Also, keep in mind that several other outlets for exposure offer rolling submissions. Check out Humble Arts Foundation, Musee Magazine, and you can also download this free guide created by PhotoShelter and FeatureShoot that lists lots of handy submittable hashtags for getting your work featured through a variety of photo-based Instagram pages (download here).

(EDITED TO ADD THIS LINK TO SEVERAL OTHER RESOURCES AS WELL)

Industry organizations are going to be hurting along with us so, if you’re able, be sure to offer your support there as well.

And now, for the biggest news of all (drum roll, please): I am announcing my own open call for work through the remainder of this month! A couple of years ago I started exploring virtual gallery spaces and, at that time, the best options required downloading a specific app which was a turn-off for those wanting faster viewing. Over the past few days, I picked up that research again and have found an impressive virtual venue!

Leaning into my experience of reviewing roughly 1000 international portfolios through LensCulture and also mentoring photographers across the US, this will be my own curatorial debut. The theme is open but I will be looking for work with a strong emotional appeal. Digital, analog and alternative processes are all welcome. I’m excited to see what you have been making!

There is no entry fee. Submit up to 5 images at 1000 px on the long side. Most likely, a maximum of one image will be selected per artist, so in this case, it doesn’t matter if the photos you submit are part of the same series. No more than 25 artists/artworks will be accepted for a virtual 3D exhibition. I will be working entirely on my own to put this together in short order so there is something new to look forward to as soon as possible. Please forgive me if I am unable to respond to inquiries in a timely manner.