PERMASTATES is an artist-led, biannual, intricately crafted book object. Each volume is designed by bookmakers, professionally printed and bound, in limited editions.

Does PERMASTATES have a theme?

PERMASTATES explores societal relationship to the idea of permanence by way of humanity’s psychosocial, political, and historical connections with nature. We call for work that explores this theme visually. Artists may interpret the theme as they wish; whether literal or abstract.

What artists are called to submit?

All artists are encouraged to apply, regardless of location or artistic practice.

We want to see a broad range of 2D art, such as photography, illustration, digital art, collage, CAD imaging, X-rays, scans, artifacts, motion picture stills, mixed media, mail-art, painting, typography, textile art, graffiti, intersectional art, engraving and/or woodcut. If you believe your work speaks to our theme, submit it!

We would also like to see experimental writers employ innovative visual techniques that defy literary norms, including text artists, new media artists, and disruptive poets such as concrete, found, sound, mathematical, experimental, and other innovative applications of text within or as part of an image or visualization. 

Possible investigations could include works created through meditations on your neighborhood regardless of terrain, landscape explorations encompassing natural, historical, architectural, urban, and/or industrial themes, as well as reflections on political and/or scientific aspects.

How are images selected?

Selections are made for PERMASTATES: No. 001 by guest editor Laura U. Marks and the PERMASTATES editorial team. Art works are chosen based on artistic merit, vision, how they relate to the theme, and how well the work reproduces in print. We call for all disciplines so that each volume results in an “ensemble dialogue” that engages and bridges diverse artistic expressions, opinions, instincts, and cultures. 

How do I prepare my files for submission?

• Digital files (JPEG, PNG, Pdf, TIFF)

• 300 PPI 

• At least 2500 px on the shortest side (Printing requires high resolution).

• Saved at highest quality in CMYK colorspace.

• Name each file with your First Initial, Last Name, and Image[number] using underscores between each item: (example: J_Doe_Image1.jpg).

• Do not add photo credits, watermarks, or any branding text on the image.

How do I submit after I purchase PERMASTATES: No. 001?

• After purchase, you will receive an email receipt containing a link to the PERMASTATES Artwork Submission Form. The Artwork Submission Form is your submission portal.

• You may also access the PERMASTATES Artwork Submission Form by CLICKING HERE.

• To complete the Artwork Submission Form you will need:

  • A link to an online drive containing up to 10 images. Please disable all passwords.

  • A Short Bio. Up to 100 words.

  • Your Order Confirmation Code. This is found under ‘Order Summary’ on your email purchase receipt.

• Submissions Deadline is Midnight, January 1, 2024.

• All images, without exception, remain the copyright of the creator of the work.

How do I know if I’ve been selected for inclusion? 

Emails of selected artists will be sent to artists on February 20, 2024. Selected artists will also be announced on our website and social media platforms in conjunction with the April 2024 mailing of PERMASTATES: No. 001.