Art and written open call submissions on the theme of HIDDEN WORLDS for Issue 71 of Haus-a-rest

Haus-a-rest Zine — www.haus-a-rest.com

Deadline 1st May 2026

OPEN CALL FOR ARTISTS - Theme: Hidden Worlds

We invite artists from all disciplines to submit work for an upcoming exhibition exploring the theme “Hidden Worlds”—a reflection on the layered identities we inhabit and the unseen truths we carry.

In our daily lives, we present carefully constructed versions of ourselves: composed, curated, and often incomplete. 

Beneath these public faces lie complex inner worlds—vulnerabilities, contradictions, desires, and stories that rarely surface.

This exhibition seeks to uncover those concealed dimensions and examine the tension between what is shown and what is withheld.

We encourage submissions that respond to questions such as:

• What lies beneath the masks we wear? 
• How do societal expectations shape the identities we present?
• How do you present to the world, and what do you keep hidden?
• How do you manage the hidden and the worldview of your identity?
• Where do authenticity and performance intersect?
• Can the hidden self ever fully emerge into view?

Artists may approach this theme through any medium, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, video, installation, performance, and digital art. Both literal and abstract interpretations are welcome.

We are particularly interested in works that challenge perception, reveal emotional depth, or invite viewers to confront their own hidden worlds.

Submission Guidelines:

• Video and film - Vimeo and YouTube only. PLEASE INCLUDE A LINK TO YOUR VIDEO 
• Performance and live art
• Sound art
• Text-based or interdisciplinary practices
• Both existing works and new proposals are eligible.

Eligibility

This open call is open to artists at all stages of their practice. Emerging and underrepresented voices are especially encouraged to apply. 

Submission Guidelines for ARTISTS

You must provide:

• A brief description of the proposed or existing work (max. 300 words). The description should explain how the work connects to the theme and explain the context. This is one of the key ways we select your work. DO NOT SIMPLY DESCRIBE THE WORK! We want you to explain how your work fits the theme and the context.
• A clear, well-photographed image of your work.  Please ensure that your work is resolved.
• Your Instagram tag is a MUST.  We will not select artists who do not have an Instagram tag.

For Writers:

• Genres: Short stories, essays, poetry, experimental writing, thought pieces, and cross-genre works
• Length: Up to 1,000 words for prose; up to 3 poems
• Format: Word document only
• Synopsis: A brief summary of the piece (50 words) explaining how it connects to the theme.

Terms and Conditions

All submissions must be original works created by the applicant.

Selected works will be featured in an online exhibition and/or a publication. 

By submitting, you grant us the right to display, publish, and promote your work as part of this project. 

Typically, the works are online for six months, but this is not guaranteed.

Artists and writers retain all rights to their work.

We look forward to your submission.

WHO WE ARE

Haus-a-rest is an independent online zine dedicated to showcasing creative voices across the globe, with over 10k followers across social media.

We highlight visual art, literature, experimental work, and cross-disciplinary practice. Every issue is curated around a theme that asks artists and writers to push their boundaries and explore new ways of seeing.

@haus_a_rest

www.haus-a-rest.com

EDITORS:     @jennafox.artist and    @nicholarodgers.artist