this place is strange

midwest nice art is a curatorial platform running themed virtual exhibitions. this place is strange is the platform's open call for the weird underbelly of place — folklore, rust belt decay, uncanny moments. The brief asks for the off-key, ambient strangeness of specific places rather than picturesque or generic landscapes.

Selection is by Morgan Laurens, arts writer and founder of Goblin Market.

Selected work is shown in a virtual exhibition. Eligibility is open to artists worldwide.

Submission is by Google Form with up to 3 images. Fee is $5. The 2026 deadline was March 20; results announced March 27, 2026.