About BlackFlash
BlackFlash is a Saskatoon-based arts magazine publishing critically attuned writing on contemporary art in Canada, with a particular focus on practices connected to the Prairies. We seek thoughtful and engaging perspectives on art and the cultural contexts in which it is made. While we value rigour and insight, BlackFlash is not an academic journal; our readership is diverse, and we ask that submissions be written in accessible language that avoids specialized jargon.
Publishing Schedule
We welcome submissions on a rolling basis for consideration in upcoming issues, published triannually in Fall, Winter, and Spring.
We accept pitches year-round, with the dates below marking approximate deadlines for each issue. In some cases, editorial decisions are finalized ahead of these dates. Submissions received after editorial lock may be considered for a future edition. We encourage contributors to pitch early in the production cycle.
Spring 2026: December 7, 2025
Fall 2026: March 31, 2026
Winter 2027: July 16, 2026
Each issue features a mix of commissioned work and selected submissions. To stay informed about upcoming issues and events, you can join our mailing list or follow us on social media.
Before You Submit
Before crafting a response to a call for pitches, please familiarize yourself with BlackFlash’s content.
BlackFlash does not employ freelance photographers or designers, and we do not respond to submissions of this nature.
Pitches concerning an organization’s own programming are not considered.
Please note that BlackFlash is no longer exclusively focused on photography, video, and new media art. Our editorial mandate now includes installation, social practice, performance, painting, drawing, and sculpture. We welcome pitches that reflect the breadth of contemporary art practices. BlackFlash is committed to highlighting art practices across Canada, with a particular focus on the Prairie provinces.
Pitching Guidelines
Send pitches to submissions[at]blackflash[dot]ca with the subject line [Issue number/season] PITCH.
Your pitch should:
- Be under 250 words
- Provide a clear summary of your topic and approach
- Explain your unique angle or critical perspective
- Reflect the tone and style of your intended piece
- Include an estimated word count and relevant hyperlinks
If you have recent writing samples, please include links (to publications or your website) or attach files.
To familiarize yourself with the kinds of texts we publish, please review some of our recent issues. When pitching, indicate the intended format (e.g., feature, conversation, etc.). Please do not send multiple pitches for the same issue.
Article Types and Fees
FEATURES
2,000–2,500 words
A critical text on contemporary art and culture, exploring urgent topics, under-explored histories, or overlooked objects of fascination.
Recent features include:
• Luis Jacob’s “To Speak and Spell When You’re Up Against a Wall”
• Aisle 4’s “Silencing the Sector”
Writer’s fee: $1,000
CONVERSATIONS
2,500–3,000 words (including 400-word intro)
An in-depth discussion between you and an artist, writer, or organizer, exploring their practice or a shared topic of interest. Includes a brief introduction by the interviewer.
Recent conversations include:
• Lodoe Laura and artist Annie MacDonell in conversation
• Steff Hui Ci Ling and Lily Jue Sheng on art, labour, and organizing
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Writer’s fee: $750
Interviewee honorarium: $150
ARTIST PROFILES
1,200-1,500 words
Introduce readers to a contemporary visual artist through a concise, engaging profile.
Recent artist profiles include:
• Gabrielle Willm’s on the work of Erica Eyres
• Lauren Lavery on the work of Adam Shiu-Yang Shaw
Writer’s fee: $600
ARTIST PROJECTS
Up to 500 words + images (up to 6 pages)
This flexible format highlights an artist’s project or practice across up to six pages. Projects may include text and images in any balance, or take a purely visual approach.
We’re looking for submissions that treat print as a creative medium, using the page as a space to develop or adapt a project. This is not a portfolio or artist statement, but a focused project that takes shape through print.
Artist’s fee: $450
For a sense of what’s possible, please refer to recent examples:
Artist’s Fee: $450