Open Call for Visual Artists | Behind the Masks of Utopian Joy

Open Call visual artists to submit their participation in an international curated exhibition titled "Behind the Masks of Utopian Joy ”.

The exhibition, with a physical presence, will take place at the Chili Art Gallery (Athens, Greece) in late February 2024 and will also be available for online viewing with the support of ARTgrID.

Official Languages The official languages of the exhibition are Greek and English.

The curation is led by the art curator Paris Kapralos.

Theme & Accepted Artworks. The exhibition accepts original artworks of any style and artistic medium that engage with the theme in any way the artist deems appropriate. Artists can participate in the exhibition and submit artworks in painting, printmaking, photography, digital print art, collage, mosaics, sculptures, and video art.

Conceptual Framework. The exhibition "Behind the Masks of Utopian Joy" discusses the context and content of the sociological term “toxic positivity” which refers to the excessive display of happiness and optimism in all situations, without considering the details of individual circumstances. Toxic positivity in societies has serious consequences; individuals are forced to suppress their genuine emotions to conform to social expectations. This repression can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression, as individuals do not find space to express and address their true feelings. Sociology and modern psychoanalytic theories support the importance of recognizing and validating all emotions, including the negative ones, and offering support and empathy to those suffering in our social environment, rather than rushing to dismiss emotions like sadness, anger, grief, etc., that other people around us may perceive as “too negative.” This approach encourages individuals to deal with their emotions in a healthy and productive way, ultimately leading to greater emotional well-being and resilience when facing life’s difficulties individually and collectively. Art becomes a conduit for empathy and a channel for human connection: it reminds us above all to be human.