Instantaneous

Description

Instantaneous
Instantaneous is a group exhibition that celebrates the Polaroid/Instant photo as a one-of-a-kind, tangible object. 
Presented by Hawk Nest GalleryDecember 12, 2025, 6:00-9:00pmHazroom Cooperative Studios, 1706 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608
The show seeks artists who wish to experiment, surprise, and celebrate the materiality of instant photography. Each piece should embrace the immediacy and quirks of the medium-- some works may be physically altered through scratching, peeling, layering, or other hands-on techniques to push the possibilities of the format. Diptychs, series, collages, and solo photos are all welcome. 
Instantaneous focuses on the Polaroid as an analog object, so no digital manipulation or prints of scans are allowed. All submitted works must be originals. Framing is encouraged, but not required.

Artist Information & Submission Guide

Mediums Accepted
This call is open to all forms of analog instant photography — including Polaroid and other instant prints, altered prints, transfers, and collage-based works.
Number of Works
Artists may submit up to 3 pieces for consideration.
How to SubmitAll submissions are handled through ArtCall. The entry form will guide you through uploading your images, paying the entry fee, and adding your descriptions.
File Guidelines
Please upload your images as JPG, PNG, or PDF files (maximum 10MB each).
If you don’t have a scan, a simple, well-lit photo of your Polaroid is perfectly fine — no need to stress about perfection.
Entry Fee
A $15 fee is required per artist, payable directly through ArtCall at the time of submission.
Artwork Presentation
Loose Polaroids will be displayed on photo shelves.
Framing is encouraged but not required — if framed, please use wire hangers only (no sawtooth).
We will do our best to accommodate special requests.
Sales and CommissionThe gallery will retain a 30% commission on sales and handle all payments.
Shipping and Drop-Off
Artists are responsible for shipping costs both ways.
Shipped work must arrive in Chicago by November 5.
Local drop-off will be accepted December 1–5 at Hazroom (details provided upon selection).
Early Submissions
Submitting early is encouraged! We will do a pre-selection round before the final deadline.

Important Dates

Submission deadline: November 28, 2025 (12 PM Central)

Notification: November 30, 2025

Drop-off window: December 1–5, 2025

Exhibition: December 12, 2025, 6–9 PM at Hazroom

Pick-up for unsold work: December 17, 2025

User Entry Process Tutorial