Open Calls
Current Artist Calls
New opportunities are announced here and through our newsletter and social media.
Submission Guidelines
John T. Hill
The Gallery Upstairs at Institute Library is a nonprofit exhibition space dedicated to contemporary art that explores books, language, archives, libraries, collections, history, and related forms of cultural inquiry.
Most exhibitions are organized around a curatorial theme. Many include an open-call component, while others are developed through invitation or direct collaboration.
We welcome submissions from artists at all stages of their careers whose work aligns with the gallery’s mission.
Ark Hive
Before You Submit
Please review the gallery’s exhibition focus before preparing a submission. We are most interested in work that engages one or more of the following:
books and reading
language and writing
libraries and archives
collecting and collections
history, memory, and documentation
knowledge and research
conceptual practices related to these themes
Because our exhibitions are thematic, not every excellent portfolio is appropriate for every exhibition.
Propose an Exhibition
Artists and curators are welcome to submit proposals for future exhibitions. Proposals should include:
exhibition concept
participating artists (if applicable)
images
artist statement
CV or résumé
any special installation requirements
Portfolio Review
The Curator in Residence periodically reviews artist portfolios for consideration in future thematic exhibitions. Portfolio reviews are ongoing, although responses may take time depending on exhibition planning.
Submission Guidelines
Please download Submission Guidelines and carefully follow the submission guidelines before sending materials.
What Sets Us Apart from the rest
The Gallery teaM
Martha Willette Lewis
Curator in Residence
Maxim Schmidt
Scott Schuldt
Susan McCaslin
Ann Marlowe
Supported by the staff, volunteers, and members of the Institute Library.
Contact
Questions regarding submissions may be directed to the Curator in Residence by email.
Please do not contact the Institute Library staff regarding exhibition submissions.
Support
the Gallery Upstairs
at the institute Library
The Gallery Upstairs is supported by the Institute Library and its members. We never charge artists exhibition fees, and contributions help sustain exhibition staff, expenses and opportunities developed for artists throughout the year.
If you value the Gallery Upstairs, please support us by specifying The Gallery when making a donation or become a member of the Institute.