Kala Collective, in collaboration with the Gender Policy Lab (Greater Chennai Corporation), is inviting artists, photographers, and researchers to collaborate on a project exploring: “What does it mean for women to exist, move, and thrive in public spaces?”
We are looking for single images, series, texts & illustrations (existing and new works) that capture the diverse ways women engage with and shape Chennai’s public spaces. Public spaces are shared, dynamic environments where women navigate, challenge, and transform societal norms.
Themes:
- Chennai Women – Portraits of women engaging in public spaces that reflect inclusivity and diversity, beyond stereotypes.
- Movement & Mobility – Women commuting by bus, train, and auto; female auto and taxi drivers navigating the city.
- Women Entrepreneurs – Vendors, small business owners, including women photographers in street, event, and wedding photography, and street food sellers who shape the local economy.
- Shaping Culture – Women performing and attending festivals, concerts, musical and dance, cultural performances, and artistic expressions that define Chennai’s identity. How do women contribute to and reshape cultural narratives?
- Activism – Women in colleges, libraries, protests, and movements, advocating for rights, equality, and social justice across various causes.
- Breaking Barriers – Women in unconventional roles, such as construction workers, traffic police, athletes, and delivery workers.
- Reclaiming Freedom & Safety – Women leisurely enjoying in parks, beaches, and other communal spaces, asserting their right to public spaces.
- Women Building the City – Women using technology, leading environmental efforts, and shaping urban spaces for the future.
Submission Guidelines:
For Existing Works:
- Submit images to thekalacollective.in{at}gmail.com
- Subject Line: Women in Chennai Public Spaces – [Your Name]
- Include a brief note explaining:
- What the work is about and how it fits the theme
- When & where the image was shot
- Provide a caption for each image
- Submission Deadline: April 5th, 6:00 PM
For New Works:
- Submit a short project proposal explaining your idea and how it fits the theme
- Include a link to your portfolio or other works to help us know more about you
- Email the details to thekalacollective.in{at}gmail.com
- Subject Line: Women in Chennai Public Spaces – [Your Name]
- Proposal Submission Deadline: March 25th, 6:00 PM
- If your proposal is accepted, you will be notified, and the final work must be submitted by: April 10th, 6:00 PM