The Art of Experimentation — Symposium on Alternative Photography

The Art of Experimentation is a one-day symposium on alternative photography co-organized by Women Alternative Photography Group and Bristol Folk House Darkroom. The 2026 edition runs in person on Saturday, August 1, 2026, 10am–3pm, at the Folk House Darkroom in central Bristol — a space dedicated to alternative and sustainable photographic processes.

The symposium is dedicated to women, non-binary, and trans artists, researchers, curators, and practitioners working with experimental and alternative photographic processes. The brief asks contributors to articulate how they use experimentation within different contexts — in practice, theory, or across different alternative photographic disciplines — and to help build community around the field. The organizers explicitly welcome students and emerging to mid-career practitioners, and applicants of all races, abilities, and experiences.

Three submission categories are open: a 10–15 minute presentation (artist talk or research paper), a 10–15 minute performance, or a 10–15 minute film screening. The programme also includes two social events designed to build networks: a photo walk around Bristol where participants can bring any camera, and an informal show-and-tell where presenters can share physical work with each other.

Application is free and made through an online form on the Women Alternative Photography Group site. Required materials: a title, a 250-word abstract, a 100-word artist bio, category selection, and up to three images, films, or performance documentation. Compensation is via revenue share — all proceeds from ticket sales are pooled and split equally among selected speakers. International applicants may apply but the organizers do not cover travel or provide visa sponsorship. Deadline: June 15, 2026. Contact: womenaltphotogroup@gmail.com.