Speculative Art

deadline for submissions: 
March 1, 2020
full name / name of organization: 
Vector: the critical journal of the British Science Fiction Association (BSFA)

“I want to be a machine” Andy Warhol

For the next issue of Vector, we invite contributors to explore modern and contemporary art in relation to science fiction. At a time when avoiding science fiction is as difficult as avoiding technology, the news, or reality itself, it’s no surprise we encounter SF in art galleries as well. Yet it’s difficult to provide a definition by which some works of art may be considered works of SF.  Should such a definition be based on aesthetics, concepts, methods, or something else? Are there works of art that may not evoke SF at first glance, but are fruitful to consider in the context of SF culture and theory? We welcome submissions that explore technology, alterity, time and space, posthumanity, artificial intelligence, and other science fictional and fantastic themes through visual art, sound art, installation art, performance art, relational art, new media, conceptual art, ludic art, and any and all other forms. 

The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2020.  We are also very happy for you to get in touch with us to discuss your ideas in advance. Academic articles between 3,500 and 5,500 words may be considered for peer review, and shorter articles, exhibition reviews, interviews, and other features are also welcome. Imaginative and left-field interpretations of the call are also encouraged.

Queries and submissions to: vector.submissions@gmail.com.

For inspiration, here are just a few artists that draw on SF in their work: