Darkroom Solstice is a Community Darkroom Print Exhibition
Darkroom
Solstice
A midwinter celebration of handmade darkroom prints
Opening Night: June 21st, 2025 (Winter Solstice)
Location: Loop Art & Photo Space, Olinda
Open Call: Submit your work
Deadline: Submissions close 5pm May 31st
Open Call for Submissions
Darkroom Solstice
A Celebration Of Print
On the longest night of the year, under winter’s deep hush, the darkroom hums with quiet alchemy. Light meets silver, shadows take shape, and hands craft images the slow way—the real way.
Darkroom Solstice is a celebration of handmade photographic prints, a gathering of artists and experimenters who breathe life into light-sensitive paper. Whether you’re a seasoned printer or stepping into the dark for the first time, this is your invitation to be part of something luminous.
Submit your work. Step into the dark. Let the magic unfold.
Exhibition
- Opening Date: June 21st, 2025
- Time: 5pm - 8:30pm
- Where: 4/540 Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd, Olinda
- Exhibition Entry: Free
Submissions
- Submissions Close: May 31st, 2025
- Submissions Fee: $35 (Loop Members $25) per print
Darkroom Solstice – FAQs
1. Who can submit prints to Darkroom Solstice?
Anyone! Whether you’re a seasoned printer or just discovering the magic of the darkroom, this exhibition is open to all who work with traditional, handmade darkroom prints.
2. How many prints can I submit?
You can submit up to three prints for consideration. Each print will require its own submission fee.
3. What’s the cost to participate?
The submission fee is $35 per print ($25 for Loop members). This covers gallery operating costs, marketing, and event setup.
4. What size should my prints be?
Prints must not exceed A4 size. You can choose to frame them or provide unmounted prints to be pinned to the gallery wall.
5. What kind of prints are accepted?
All submissions must be handmade darkroom prints—silver gelatin, lith, cyanotype, or other traditional processes. No inkjet or digital prints.
6. How do I submit my work?
You’ll fill out an online submission form and pay the entry fee through our website. Then, you’ll need to either drop off or post your prints to Loop Art & Photo Space in Olinda before 5pm on Saturday May 31st, 2025.
7. Can I sell my prints at the exhibition?
Yes! Prints can be sold, with a 15% commission taken by the gallery (excluding GST). Sold prints will be mailed to buyers after the exhibition.
8. What happens if my print doesn’t sell?
You can collect unsold prints after the exhibition ends in late August. If you can’t pick them up in person, we offer shipping for $15 per print.
9. What’s happening on opening night?
Winter Solstice, June 21st, 2025, will be a night of art, music, and community. Expect a packed space, live music, and artist talks. A perfect way to celebrate the art of printing!
10. Will there be workshops or events alongside the exhibition?
Yes! Darkroom Solstice kicks off a winter-long darkroom festival at Loop, featuring classes, workshops, and special events focused on black & white photography and darkroom techniques.
Want to join? Submit your prints before May 31st.
Answer the call