Call for Submissions
Fleisher Art Memorial is pleased to announce a call for submissions for Fleisher in Focus: Collective Works of a Community Darkroom. This exhibition will celebrate our ongoing commitment to film and alternative photographic processes. Work will be showcased at the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in 2026 coinciding with America’s 250th anniversary.
Exhibition Theme
We invite current and past students, community members, faculty, and volunteer monitors of Fleisher’s Darkroom Photography program to submit 1-5 photographs that speak to Philly—either drawing inspiration from the past or responding directly to the present. Photographs may reflect personal or collective narratives related to Philadelphia’s past, present, and future, as well as themes of kinship, community, belonging, history, and resilience.
What We're Looking For
Photographs created as part of Fleisher’s Darkroom Photography Program –past or present
Work that explores themes of Philly’s history, culture, or identity – in big or small ways – personal or collective
Images that highlight the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives within Philly
Photographs that use traditional or alternative photographic techniques (e.g., black-and-white film, color film Polaroid transfers, cyantopes, etc.)
Submission Details
Eligibility: Open to all current and past students, community members, faculty, and volunteer monitors of Fleisher’s Darkroom Photography. If you have not participated in a Darkroom class or workshop please see upcoming opportunities below.
Format: Please submit 1-5 high-quality images (JPG or TIFF, minimum 300 DPI at 8×10 inches) via submission form.
Optional Accompanying Materials: A brief statement (200-300 words) that describes your image and its connection to the theme of the exhibition. This could include insights into the inspiration behind the work, the personal or historical context, or your experience working with Fleisher.
Deadline: Submissions must be received by June 30th. Late submissions will not be considered.
Exhibition and Selection Process
Works will be selected by a committee of Fleisher faculty and staff with a focus on selecting images that reflect the diverse experiences of Fleisher students. Photographs will be printed and installed at the Philadelphia airport to create a visually striking and emotionally impactful presentation. We will select 250 images for inclusion in the exhibition, ensuring a broad representation of styles, experiences, and techniques.
Submit Your Work
Submission Deadline: June 30th
Please complete the following form to submit your work. Details about the exhibition opening and duration will be shared later this year. Contact Information: Caitlin Deutsch, Director of Education – education@fleisher.org.