An exhibition opportunity foregrounding empowerment, representation and lived experience
Unpublished Africa invites African women photographers to submit work for its Women’s Month 2026 exhibition, building on earlier research and exhibitions focused on empowerment and visibility in African photography. The exhibition seeks photographic stories that centre women’s lives, labour, creativity and agency across diverse social and cultural contexts.
Submissions are encouraged that engage themes such as economic empowerment, women and climate, cultural heritage, and personal or collective narratives reflecting the realities of women and their communities. Projects may be documentary or conceptual, and may take the form of a short series or a single coherent story.
Applicants are asked to submit three to five images, each with a clear caption following the format Artist Name, Nationality, Title, Year. Submissions must also include an artist statement of up to 200 words, a short bio, and a headshot. Contributors are invited to complete the prompt “I’d be empowered if…” to reflect on what empowerment means within their own practice and context.
Selected photographers will be invited to exhibit their work as part of the Women’s Month programme. All submitted work remains the property of the photographers.
Deadline: 15 February 2026
Submissions via Airtable: https://airtable.com/appf0GGiOOYqqSMzO/shrkUEE1utfvBujIj
