This is an open call for submissions from visual artists working in all media to contribute to an exhibition in Central London exploring our experiences of lockdown through the lens of the concept of 'Wilderness'.

The Haven+ is a London based charity that provides mental health and welfare support for creatives in the city. We are very much aware of the toll that the events of 2020 have had on artists and on our mental, spiritual and emotional wellbeing. For this exhibition from March 22nd - April 4th 2021 we aim to showcase the work of artists from a wide range of backgrounds, exploring what this time has meant, how it has challenged and transformed us and what does it mean to emerge from the other side. 

We will use the story of Jesus’ experience in the Wilderness – a moment when all sense of identity, social identities and notions of value and stability break down – as a framework for the exhibition and artists are welcome to take this in whatever direction they feel inspired to explore. This may include the physical, emotional and spiritual experiences of lockdown and wilderness time for example. Whilst this story draws from the Christian tradition we welcome and encourage submissions from artists of all faith and spiritual backgrounds and those with none. Our aim is to weave together many diverse stories and experiences in this exhibition. We particularly encourage submissions from BAME, LGBT+ and disabled artists.

2D, 3D, video, installation and performance work will all be considered for inclusion and we anticipate several performance events throughout the show (COVID restrictions permitting).

We welcome submissions of existing work or work made specifically for this show and we hope that a number of contributing artists would be willing to enter into conversation together as we make work for the exhibition to enrich the flow between the art works.

We anticipate including 20-30 artists with 40 pieces of work, so you are welcome to submit more than one piece for the exhibition.

The venue

The exhibition will take place at St Pancras New Church, Euston Rd, London. This venue offers a number of different spaces for showcasing artwork: an extensive crypt, sanctuary/church space and outdoor garden space for appropriate sculptural work. We are very happy to enter into dialogue with artists about the kind of space you would like to use to exhibit your work and particularly welcome discussion and meetings with installation and performance artists about how they might interact creatively with the building.

Costs and commission

There is no cost for submitting an application. All work may be offered for sale. The Haven will take 30% commission on any artwork sold to support our work with creatives in the city.

Application

For the application process please send up to 5 examples of your work with medium, size and price (if applicable) along with any particular requirements for display and outline which pieces you would like to submit for consideration and/or your thoughts about the work you would like to make for the exhibition. For performance or video work please send a link to your work on Vimeo or similar platform.

Also include with your application:

·        Artist’s bio (max 250 words)

·        In what ways you feel that your work resonates with this theme (max 250 words)

·        Any other information you feel is relevant for us to consider (max 250 words)

Closing date for applications is 21st January.

Successful applicants will be informed by 30th January.

Whilst public liability insurance is covered by the venue it is the responsibility of individual artists to ensure their work is otherwise insured.

In accepting a place in the exhibition artists give permission for The Haven to use photographs of their work in publicity, social media and exhibition guide/catalogue.