Reviews: In-depth critique of exhibitions, public art, or performances in Philadelphia. Interviews: Coversations with artists, curators, and other arts professionals. Essays / Opinions: Long-form analysis, thematic essays, or commentary on the Philadelphia arts community.
Note: We do not accept press releases, promotional copy, or content that primarily advertises a business or event as Art Writing. For this purpose, please submit an Announcement.
INSITE publishes writing that recognizes art as a site of action. We spotlight artists who confront the political, social, and environmental conditions of our time, and we cultivate critical discourse that both incites transformation and deepens public insight. Our mission is to ensure that art and the conversations around it remain critical and embedded in everyday life.
Specifically, we are interested in art writing through the lens of:
Community-based practices
Artist-led projects
Economic realities of artists
Social justice
Politics
LGBTQAI+ issues
Environmentalism
Digital Culture
Art Theory
Public art
Museum exhibtions
Opinion pieces
Philadelphia news
Cultural access and equity
Funding
INSITE is a non-profit organization funded in part by the Philadelphia Cultural Fund and through our membership model. We run on a lean budget and are artist-led at our core. We do this work because we love it and do not make a profit.
INSITE is W.A.G.E. Certified and pays $.30 per word for commissioned writing and $.03 per word (or $60, whichever is greater) for existing writing.
How to pitch
All first-time contributers should submit pre-written content via the Pitch Application below. Second-time contributors may pitch ideas and be commissioned for their writing.
Process:
Submit a Pitch Application through INSITE’s form below. If pitching an exhibition review, it is preferential to have at least two weeks left of the show’s run.
Give INSITE one week to read and edit your pitch.
INSITE will accept or decline your pitch via email. If accepted, we will offer edits to your writing or approve for publication.
INSITE will publish your work. Copyright remains with the artist/author and payment of a fee does not render the writing 'work for hire.'
INSITE will issue payment at a rate of $.10/word or $60 within 30 days.
Guidelines:
Contributers
are responsible for fact-checking and sourcing their work.
Contributers must credit all sources (images, quotations, etc.) and ensure permissions where necessary.
Plagiarism, including AI-generated text submitted as original, is prohibited.
Use Chicago Manual of Style for references and citations.
Include captions and credits for images.
Avoid discriminatory or exclusionary language; prioritize inclusive language.
Pitch Application:
Type of pitch (Essay, Review, Interview/Studio visit, Other)