Open Call for Writers: "Abya Yala: Indigenous Connections en Latinoamérica"
Artwork by Fulgencio Lazo. La Tierra Madre de la Luz (Mother Earth of Light), 2022. Acrylic on canvas, 39.50 x 63 x 1.50 in
La Sala cordially invites writers of Indigenous descent residing in Washington State with connections to Mexico and the Americas to submit their work for consideration in our upcoming exhibition, "Abya Yala: Indigenous Connections en Latinoamérica," slated to run from November 6, 2024, to January 5, 2025, at Columbia City Gallery.
Indigenous people in Mexico make up 68 ethnic groups. In Central America, Indigenous people make up 16.4% of the population. In South America, there are 228 Indigenous people groups. To showcase their talent, La Sala is creating this special exhibit, among the first in Seattle to showcase visual Indigenous visual artists and writers with connections to Mexico and the Americas.
This initiative aims to spotlight the rich and diverse talents of Indigenous peoples in our region, featuring both visual artworks and an ekphrastic writing component. We seek to celebrate Indigenous culture and heritage by showcasing the works of up to 10 artists alongside written interpretations crafted by Indigenous writers.
This exhibition will provide a unique platform for artists to share their stories and perspectives, fostering connections and a multi-dimensional ekphrastic dialogue between visual and literary art forms. Selected writers will have the opportunity to engage with the community through workshops and a curator-led reception, promising a vibrant and inclusive celebration of Indigenous creativity in Seattle. Both the ekphrastic writing and the artwork will be part of an upcoming printed book catalog that will be available during the exhibit.
About Identity
We invite Latine/x writers who self-identify as of Indigenous descent to submit their work. We understand that identity is complex and multifaceted, and we are committed to celebrating the diversity within indigenous communities. Therefore, we welcome submissions from:
Latine/x writers who self-identify as indigenous, regardless of whether they are officially recognized by a tribe or community.
Latine/x writers whose work may not fit traditional or stereotypical notions of indigenous art.
Latine/x writers who may not speak an indigenous language or practice traditional customs.
Latine/x writers whose indigenous heritage may have been severed long ago or across many generations.
Our aim is to create a space that honors the rich, varied experiences and expressions of indigenous writers. Your voice and vision matter, and we encourage you to share your unique perspective with us.
Submission Deadline:
August 25, 2024 by midnight
Submission Guidelines:
Only writers of Indigenous descent with connections to Mexico and/or the Americas are invited to submit their work for consideration.
Writers must reside in Washington State to be able to participate.
Submissions must be sent via email to info@lasalanw.org by the deadline of Sunday August 25, 2024 before midnight. Please include "Indigenous Connections Writing Submission" in the subject line of the email.
Artists may submit up to five short text, each one no longer than 500 words, in either Word or PDF format. Each file must be named the following way: LastName_FirstName_Number.jpg (for example: Olivo_Clara_1.docx, Olivo_Clara_2.pdf, etc.)
Along with the texts, writers must provide a brief bio highlighting their cultural connections and artistic inspirations.
Selection Process:
Works will be reviewed and selected by local AfroIndigenous writer Clara Olivo and a panel of members and curators from La Sala.
Selected writers will be notified via email by September 1st, 2024.
Compensation
Besides receiving a small stipend, selected artists will have the opportunity to:
Showcase their ekphrastic writing along the visual artwork component
Have their writing featured in a printed book catalog commemorating the exhibit
Network at artists' receptions
Participate in workshops on Indigenous art and ekphrastic writing
Contact Information
For inquiries or submissions, please contact info@lasalanw.org.