In a world where capitalism is out of control and change feels just out of reach, life goes on. But can we continue living in outrage, and who bears the cost if we do?

“It’s easier to imagine the end of the world than the end of capitalism.”

We want to explore this social climate: the reality of anger, the cruelty of inequality, the necessity of hope, the societal inertia that enables it, and the possibility of change.

We aim for expression to be one small step toward challenge.

We are creating an exhibition and a subsequent network of artists that explores this reality.

We welcome submissions that engage with any or all of the aspects listed above — and those we haven’t considered yet.

When & Where:

hARTslane Gallery, 23/1/2026 to 25/1/2025. 

There will be a private view event on 23/1/2026.

Who can apply:

UK/London-based artists working in any media. All works will need to be dropped off at the gallery (in Newcross, London) on 23/1/2026. If this is a problem, please reach out to us here - we don't want it to stop anyone applying.  

Kind of work:

We welcome work of all media, though we have only one video display set up, so there is the possibility of a looped video installation.

There are no restrictions on the size of work, but works will have to come ready to be displayed and with clear instructions.

If there are complex display requirements, we ask artists to be present to help with the hanging of their work.

How to submit:

We recommend submitting up to three pieces of artwork.

You can submit a maximum of 6 images, so we expect an average of 2 per work, or more images can be submitted for smaller work. 

For video works, please provide a link in your description.

Costs:

There is no fee to apply; however, upon acceptance, we ask artists to pay a nominal fee of £20 to secure their space. This will go towards exhibition costs. Again, please reach out to us if this is a barrier for you.

Deadline:

Midnight on 7/12/2025,  we will aim to get back to artists within the next two weeks. 

Benefits:

• Meet new artists working on anti-capitalist themes, be inspired & collaborate
• Attend private view on 23/01/2026
• Work available to sell, gallery takes 0% commission
  
  

The Venue

hARTSlane gallery is at 17 Harts Lane.

It is an old stable from the early 20th century that later became a motorbike garage.

Owned by the local authority, the London Borough of Lewisham, at 80m2, it is a single-storey ground-floor space. The maximum capacity for the private view will be 60. 

The Curators

Ella Sheltawy & Allison Vetters are both emerging fine artists inspired by the work of Mark Fisher, coming together to collaborate on their first open-call exhibition.