Trauma and the Body

Tendrils (a new art and literature journal focused on trauma) is seeking submissions of visual art and short-form literature for its premiere issue.

The first edition of Tendrils will explore the profound theme of trauma and the body—how it’s held, manifested, and transmitted in physical form. We invite creators to interpret this theme in their unique way, whether conceptually in abstraction, or more realistically.

We aim to create a space where art and literature can intersect, offering a platform for voices that explore the nuanced and often difficult conversation around trauma.

Deadline: Nov. 18th

What kind of art can you submit?

We welcome art submissions in any medium or size that explore the themes of trauma and the body.

For literature, we’re looking for short-form pieces (max. 1000 words) such as poetry, essays, and short stories that focus on these themes. We're open to considering an excerpt if you have a long-form work that aligns with our theme.

Where will the selected work be shown/presented?

All selected art and literature will be printed in the premiere issue. A select number of these works will also be showcased on our website. The print edition of Tendrils will be available for purchase, while the condensed online version will be offered for free.

Who will be selecting the art and literature?

The premiere issue will be curated/edited by Rebecca Perez and Fabiola R. Delgado. Read more about them here.

There is no fee for submission.

We value and respect artists and their work and believe artists should be paid.

Each selected artist and writer will be paid a predetermined flat fee. We are currently researching what amount would be equitable with the help of resources such as W.A.G.E. Each selected artist will also receive at least one copy of the issue free of charge.

Criteria

  • Deadline: Nov. 18, 2024

  • Address the theme of trauma and the body

  • Submitter must be 18 years old or older, and live in the US and/or its territories

  • Artworks can be of any medium or size (if video or performance, please submit a still image) 

  • Artist Statement about how the work addresses the theme (between 100 and approximately 300 words)

  • For art submissions: upload jpg (jpeg) files. The longest side should be no greater than 2000 pixels. Each file must be saved as “FirstnameLastname_Title”

  • For literature submissions: upload pdf files. Each file must be saved as “FirstnameLastname_Title”

  • Literature must be short-form (poetry, essay, short story, etc.), OR an excerpt from a long-form text. (max. 1000 words)

  • Max 4 submissions will be reviewed.

Deadline: Nov. 18th