POST-OFFICE ARTS JOURNAL is a critical platform aiming to respond to the prolific output in Baltimore’s alternative arts venues as well as a publication space for open-ended essays/thought exercises both related to and not related to the arts.
It is founded with a few specific thoughts in mind. The first is that Baltimore’s arts are growing quickly and demand a new voice that can join the currently strong (but limited) writing landscape in this city. The creativity found in this city is unique and fecund. A goal is to reduce the amount of programming that goes unaddressed. When shows go up and come down without receiving proper consideration and dialogue, opportunities for development and conversation are lost. Critical writing is important for more than just audience, it is a resource useful to artists and venues alike as a way to maintain emphasis on discourse as well as to better document the multitude of impulses that are felt in this city.
Post-Office is interested in a criticism that doesn’t necessarily cheerlead cultural production, that is able to observe exhibitions, events, and actions for their quality, their intentions, their craft, and their timeliness. Having an accessible platform available to record these thoughts for current and future reflection is valuable. POAJ will morph and change over time as it gains a better sense for where it fits in the cultural dialogue to best cater to these interests.
At its outset, POAJ is a digital space that encourages submissions from artists, curators, students, writers, and non-writers. Aside from strict “arts writing,” POAJ is interested in open-ended essay writing that is interested in developing thoughts on topics on design, economics, social interaction, history, etc.
If you would like to pitch a review or an essay, send us a quick note atpostofficeartsjournal (at) gmail (dot) combefore starting so we can talk first. We’re interested in reviews between 750 and 1,250 words, but are always flexible depending on the case. We look forward to hearing from you!