Instantaneous

Instantaneous is a group exhibition celebrating the Polaroid and instant photo as a one-of-a-kind, tangible object. The show seeks artists who wish to experiment, surprise, and celebrate the materiality of instant photography. Each piece should embrace the immediacy and quirks of the medium—some works may be physically altered through scratching, peeling, layering, or other hands-on techniques to push the possibilities of the format. Diptychs, series, collages, and solo photos are all welcome.

Instantaneous focuses on the Polaroid as an analog object, so no digital manipulation or prints of scans are allowed. All submitted works must be originals. Framing is encouraged but not required. This call is open to all forms of analog instant photography, including Polaroid and other instant prints, altered prints, transfers, and collage-based works.

Entry fee is $15 per artist, payable through ArtCall at submission. Artists are responsible for shipping costs both ways; shipped work must arrive in Chicago by November 5. Local drop-off will be accepted December 1–5 at Hazroom Cooperative Studios (1706 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608). Loose Polaroids will be displayed on photo shelves. If framed, please use wire hangers only (no sawtooth). The gallery will retain a 30% commission on sales and handle all payments. Pick-up for unsold work is December 17, 2025. The exhibition opens December 12, 2025, 6–9 PM at Hazroom Cooperative Studios.