Visual Studies Workshop nurtures experimental and expansive approaches to photography and media arts, and builds community among artists and the public through exhibitions, publications and residencies.

Visual Studies Workshop seeks submissions for the second annual 

LOCALS! Experimental Variety Show - a showcase of media, performance and everything in-between by artists from the Rochester region. This one-night event will take place in the VSW Theater and include short films, projections, performances and an assortment of audio-visual acts that highlight the diverse creative community in Rochester. We seek short (15 minutes or less) works that are experimental, expansive and interdisciplinary, including: film, video, comedy, lectures, sound, movement, performance art, video games, demonstrations, and presentations.

We encourage submissions for works under 15 minutes in the following formats: 16mm film, Super 8, Filmstrip, 35mm slide, video, sound, PowerPoint, performance art, movement, video games, animation and other formats. VSW can provide limited access to film and video projectors.

Submission deadline: June 19, 2026

Notifications: July 1st, 2026

Tech check: July 16, 2026

Show Date: July 17, 2026 at 7pm!

Questions: marylewandowski@vsw.org

Update: The Project Space Residency Application Portal is now Closed

Notifications: Early July