Anthology Submissions

Submission Deadline: Ongoing, final deadline TBD

Fees: There is NO fee to submit. Writers will be paid an honorarium for their work.

WILD SKIES PRESS is looking for contributors for its first ever anthology!

Anthology Title: “Art in the Open: Creativity on the Canadian Prairies”

Overview

“Art in the Open: Creativity on the Canadian Prairies” is an anthology that seeks to explore and celebrate the diverse and dynamic art scene in the Canadian Prairies. This collection will bring together voices from artists, curators, museum professionals, art writers, and other cultural workers to provide a comprehensive and multifaceted view of the art landscape in this unique region. By showcasing a wide range of perspectives, the anthology aims to capture the essence of the Prairies’ cultural identity, exploring themes of place, history, community, and innovation.

Objectives

1. Document the Art Scene: To provide a detailed and insightful documentation of the contemporary art scene in the Canadian Prairies, highlighting key artists, movements, and trends.
2. Celebrate Diversity: To celebrate the cultural diversity of the region by including voices from various backgrounds, including Indigenous, immigrant, and underrepresented communities.
3. Foster Dialogue: To create a platform for dialogue and exchange among artists, curators, and cultural workers, fostering a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in the region.
4. Inspire and Educate: To inspire readers, both within and beyond the Prairies, by showcasing the creativity and resilience of the region’s art community, and to educate a broader audience about the cultural significance of the Canadian Prairies.

Content and Structure

The anthology will be organized thematically, with each section exploring different aspects of the art scene in the Prairies. Potential themes include:

1. Land and Identity: How the vast landscapes of the Prairies influence artistic expression and cultural identity.
2. Indigenous Perspectives: Highlighting Indigenous artists and cultural workers, exploring how they navigate and challenge colonial narratives.
3. Urban and Rural Dynamics: Examining the differences and connections between urban centers and rural communities in the art world.
4. Innovations and Experimentation: Showcasing new and experimental art forms emerging from the region.
5. Historical Contexts: Exploring the historical development of the arts in the Prairies and its impact on contemporary practices.
6. Community and Collaboration: Focusing on collaborative projects, community art initiatives, and the role of art in social change.

Call for Submissions

We invite submissions from artists, curators, museum professionals, art writers, and other cultural workers who have a connection to the Canadian Prairies. Submissions may include essays, critical analyses, interviews, artist statements, photographic essays, art studio photo features, and creative non-fiction. We encourage contributors to explore the themes outlined above or propose new ones that align with the anthology’s objectives.

Editors and Contributors

The anthology will be edited by Alexis Marie Chute, MFA, with contributions from a diverse group of artists and cultural workers across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Alexis Marie Chute has extensive experience in the Canadian art scene and has previously published works on regional art and culture. 

Publication Details

• Publisher: Wild Skies Press
• Format: Print and digital editions
• Projected Release Date: Fall 2025
• Distribution: National and international distribution through major retailers, niche venues, and online platforms

“Art in the Open: Creativity on the Canadian Prairies” promises to be a landmark publication, offering an in-depth and vibrant exploration of the art and culture of a region often overlooked in broader Canadian narratives. We are excited to bring together a diverse array of voices and stories that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Prairies and look forward to the contributions from our community.

Include the following in ONE PDF:

Submission Guidelines:

• Cover letter introducing yourself and your book.
  • Include your full contact information: name, address, phone number, email and website and social media handles included as hyperlinks.
• CV with education, experience, publishing and/or exhibition credits.
• Abstracts: 300-500 words outlining the proposed contribution.
• Full Submissions: Up to 5,000 words for written pieces; image-based submissions should include high-resolution images with captions.
• Deadline for Abstracts: January 30, 2025
• Deadline for Full Submissions: March 1, 2025
• Submit by email: info@alexismariechute.com

Submit complete PDF package by email to Alexis Marie Chute info@alexismariechute.com

• Do not send hardcopies of your work unless requested.
• Please do not contact us by phone, email is preferred.
• We endeavor to respond to submissions within one month.
• We do not have the ability to review incomplete submissions or provide feedback on unsuccessful submissions.