OPEN CALL: Pansy Craze

Pansy Craze is an exhibition highlighting the individuality of trans artists through whimsical storytelling that explores grief, what could have been, and eccentric experiences. With surrealist concepts and abstracted views, the exhibition displays images of love, melancholy, and pleasure that speak to the life of each trans artist. The show creates a shared, intimate, and safe space—a sanctuary juxtaposed to a sociopolitical landscape increasingly contentious towards queer bodies. The exhibition acknowledges Chicago's importance as a landing ground and haven for BIPOC LGBTQ+ artists seeking autonomy over their work, identities, and bodies.

This exhibition prioritizes BIPOC trans artists only, demonstrating the art of the most affected community and highlighting the intricacies of daily life of underserved communities. Curated by two trans artists of color, the selected work demonstrates both strength and moments of trans joy. The exhibition is about storytelling and change, with each piece serving as a curated annotation. The artists create signifiers of their encounters through whimsical surrealism and narrative building, speaking to the complexities of being beyond grief and in relationship to joy and celebration.

Submissions should include 3-5 samples of work, an artist statement relating to the theme, and an artist bio. Submissions are limited to Chicagoland artists only. The exhibition opens March 27th at Fulton Street Collective, located at 1821 W Hubbard St, Chicago. Submit materials to [email protected] with subject line "Pansy Craze_Artist Name."