Gallery @ Lightwriters
Wonderland is a bizarre, far away place where magical things happen, but itās also a tale about change. Thereās tension in this land as the artists are navigating what it means to remove oneself from a place they once knew to live a new life elsewhere. Tension in Wonderland is an exploration in navigating cultural landscapes while finding similarities to where youāve once been. Each artist in this show has found their way to Chicago from various parts of the world, and each oneās work discusses the ways they found solace in this city while expanding on the discomfort of leaving oneās home.
The artists have all confronted this idea of transition and relocation through various means, but they find commonality through impression and expression. Tension in Wonderland is a reflection on the strains of being, but also the joy of being.
Exhibition Details
Tension in Wonderland
August 28th - November 6th, 2026
Lightwriters Neon
4222 N Ravenswood Ave.
Opening reception on June 6th 6-9pm
Viewing times are Wednesdayās 4-9pm or by appointment.
4222 N. Ravenswood Ave.
Suite 202-3
Chicago, IL 60613
Open Wednesdays 4-9pm and by appointment
Open Call!
Lightwriters Neon is opening up our gallery for proposals for the 2027 calendar year!
The Gallery at Lightwriters is committed to adding accessibility to the world of neon art. We are in search of two neon-forward art shows for our 2027 gallery line-up. Of the two available slots, one is for a group show, and one is for a solo show. You are invited to apply for as many as you like. While other mediums are welcome, we maintain a traditional glass neon focus, and some neon work is a requirement of each proposal.
Each exhibition slot is 10 weeks long, and includes an opening and/or closing event. Available slots extend from late winter through the summer.
Lightwriters splits available artwork sales on a 60/20/20 model, 60% to the artist, 20% to the guest curator (you), and 20% to Lightwriters. All artists are asked to sign a consignment agreement for the duration of the show. Chosen shows will have the assistance of Tri, Gallery Manager at Lightwriters, and some volunteers to help hang the show, but the chosen applicants will be required to be on-site during install and de-install, and at any planned events.
There are two opportunities available: one for a group show and one for a solo exhibition. For either type of entry, we ask that you write up a short proposal containing the following information:
Preferred time slots. (late winter, spring, or summer)
The number of artists you plan to include (please list at the top), OR if you're applying for a solo show, please put "Solo Show" at the top.
Every artist and curator planned to contribute to your exhibition, listed out. With email address, social media handles, websites, and CVās
A brief written proposal of your show. No more than 500 words.
Artist and curator statements and bios. No more than 250 words each (statements and bios count separately).
Images of the proposed works alongside brief work statements, as well as the artist's name, year, medium, artwork description, and dimensions. No more than 150 words for statements and 1ā2 images per work.
A list of any events you wish to hold in conjunction with the show (e.g., artist talks, workshops, etc.).
A list of any technological needs for this show (e.g., power strips/extension cords, projectors/monitors, etc.).
Please compile all information into one PDF with links to images and additional documents. Incomplete entries will not be considered.
When you are ready to submit, please send your materials to galleryatlightwriters@gmail.com with the subject line "2027 Show Proposal" followed by "Group" or "Solo" depending on which you are applying for.
Submit by September 20, 2026 to be considered. Free to apply.
For any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out via email.