Open Call
Motherhood
Ballon Rouge invites photographic talent to submit a proposal for an exhibition centered on the theme of motherhood. From the submissions, three photographers will be selected to show their work in a group exhibition. We are looking for personal projects that highlight the multifaceted nature of motherhood, from diverse perspectives and backgrounds. This exhibition aims to showcase the complexity, beauty, and challenges of motherhood through surprising and varied stories.
Whether you are a recently graduated photographer or have followed your own path in photography, we encourage you to submit your unique vision of motherhood. We are seeking fresh perspectives that challenge us to see motherhood in new ways—work that provokes, moves, and inspires reflection.
All styles and approaches are welcome. What matters most is the strength of the story, the diversity within the theme, and the way the work encourages the audience to think about motherhood in all its forms.
◼︎ Deadline
Submissions are closed.
Dandelion, 2019
© Sanne Romeijn
◼︎ About Ballon Rouge
Ballon Rouge is an inclusive platform with an open and welcoming atmosphere, where both artists and visitors feel at home. We strongly believe in personal collaboration between gallery and artist: developing an exhibition is an intensive process, and it is only together that we can make it a success.
In the lead-up to the exhibition, we provide intensive guidance on all aspects that are important to bringing the show to life, from image selection and layout, to marketing, edition planning, and preparing an artist talk. During the exhibition, we also organize a broad supporting program with engaging and enriching activities.
◼︎ Practical Information
What We Offer
The three selected artists will participate in a group exhibition, which will be on view at Ballon Rouge for two months. We provide the exhibition space and offer guidance throughout the preparation process, supported by mentors and professionals from the field. In addition, we handle the organization, marketing, communications, and supporting program of the exhibition, including a festive opening.
What we ask from you
First and foremost, your motivation and time commitment to collaborate with us to create a successful exhibition. You are also responsible for the production costs of your work and travel expenses to the gallery.
Jury
◼︎ Sarah Mei Herman, independent photographer
◼︎ Hedy van Erp, photo historian, author, and curator
◼︎ Raffaella Huizinga, photo editor NRC, jury member Zilveren Camera
◼︎ Jarmal Martis, photographer, board member Stichting Ballon Rouge
Winners wil be announced on 10 March 2025.
Participation fee
€25 per submission, free for Ballon Rouge Friends.
Who can participate
Professional photographers of all kinds—autodidacts, recent graduates, or established professionals—living or working in the Netherlands, 18 years or older. Participants should be able to attend the gallery in person before and during the exhibition.
Submission
Submit your proposal via the online form, including your CV, portfolio, and exhibition proposal (PDF, max. 10 MB). Proposals must be photographic in nature, showing how you plan to present, print, and frame your work. By submitting, you confirm you hold all rights to your images and grant Ballon Rouge permission to use them for promotional purposes.
Preparation
Selected photographers receive intensive guidance on image selection, layout, marketing, edition planning, project statements, and preparing an artist talk. Sessions take place at Ballon Rouge with support from the gallery team, external professionals, and a curator.
Exhibition Details
◼︎ Dates: 8 May – 29 June 2025
◼︎ Location: Ballon Rouge, Rotterdam
◼︎ Wall space: approx. 4–5 meters per photographer
◼︎ Work must be professionally presented and framed; production, framing, and delivery costs are the responsibility of the artist.
◼︎ Ballon Rouge organizes installation, promotional materials, and events (preview, opening, artist talk, finissage).
Sales
Sales revenue is split: photographer receives 65%, Ballon Rouge 35%.
Post-Exhibition
Artists are responsible for picking up their work within 14 days after the exhibition ends.
Key Dates
◼︎ Open Call Deadline 23 February 2025
◼︎ Salon (pre-opening) 8 May 2025
◼︎ Opening 10 May 2025
◼︎ Finissage 29 June 2025