Unsent Letters Inspired Art Exhibition - Chattanooga
Call for 10 Chattanooga artists to create works inspired by anonymous unsent letters for curated exhibition opening January 2026.
Unsent Letter Mailbox and ClearStory Arts invite Chattanooga-based artists to participate in 'The Inexpressible Contained,' a curated exhibition opening January 2, 2026. Ten selected artists will collaborate to create original works inspired by anonymous unsent letters collected during mailbox pop-ups across Chattanooga. These letters—unspoken confessions, unshared griefs, or untold truths—will serve as raw material for artistic interpretation. Artists will choose from two anonymous letters and produce at least one original piece in response. The exhibit explores how letters written in anonymity transcend cultural constraints and linguistic boundaries, drawing from Maggie Nelson's reflection that 'the inexpressible is (inexpressibly) contained within the expressed.' The Unsent Letter Mailbox project, which began in NYC in February 2024, has become a movement providing safe space for over 1,500 people to express the inexpressible. Artists will receive stipends, with funding provided in part by ArtsBuild. This unique opportunity combines community storytelling with artistic expression, creating a bridge between anonymous voices and visual interpretation.
Submission Guidelines
Open to Chattanooga-based artists working in visual art, film, photography, sculpture, or mixed media. Artists must create at least one original piece inspired by anonymous letters provided. Art drop-off required December 19, 2025 between 10am and 5pm.
How to Apply
1. Step 1: Visit www.clearstoryarts.com/unsent-letter-mailbox-artist-application to submit application by September 29, 2025
2. Step 2: Wait for notification of selection by October 15, 2025
3. Step 3: If selected, create artwork inspired by provided anonymous letters and deliver to ClearStory Arts on December 19, 2025
Application & Contact
Application URL: www.clearstoryarts.com/unsent-letter-mailbox-artist-application
Contact: unsentlettermailbox.chatt@gmail.com
Source: https://www.chattanoogapulse.com/arts_entertainment/arts-news/call-for-artists-an-exhibit-inspired-by-local-anonymous-lett/