Organizer Information:


Atelier Ghostbirds is an independent art space in Caldas da Rainha, Portugal, dedicated to showcasing experimental, collaborative, and socially engaged practices. Through exhibitions, workshops, and open calls, the atelier fosters dialogue between local and international artists while connecting art-making with community impact.

Title & Description:

Fragments of What Makes Us Alive – Mail-Art Exhibition (Portugal, 2026)

Atelier Ghostbirds invites artists, makers, and creative souls worldwide to participate in a collective Mail-Art exhibition. Participants are asked to send in postcards or envelope-based works that capture the simple joys and profound treasures of life. The show will celebrate the fragments that make us feel most alive—through images, words, or objects—and will culminate in a salon-style exhibition, with proceeds benefiting the Global Fund for Human Rights.

Format & Materials

  • Postcard (any handmade, analog processes encouraged!)
  • Envelope submission (The shorter side must be 21 cm or 8.25 inches max; larger pieces may be folded into the envelope.)

Theme:

Art is life and life is art.
Artists are invited to share the people, places, memories, and dreams that bring them energy and meaning. What everyday fragments make you feel most alive?

Key Dates:

  • Deadline: December 15, 2025 (works must be delivered by this date)
  • Notification Date: Not applicable (all eligible works exhibited)
  • Duration: Exhibition runs January–March 2026

Location:

Atelier Ghostbirds, Caldas da Rainha, Portugal

Eligibility:

  • Open to all artists and makers of all ages, worldwide
  • Emerging and established artists welcome

Costs/Funding:

  • Participation is free (shipping costs covered by artist)
  • All works will be included in the exhibition and auctioned to support the Global Fund for Human Rights

Provided by Host:

  • Inclusion in group Mail-Art exhibition (salon-style, wall-to-wall installation)
  • Public presentation of artworks
  • Silent auction managed by Atelier Ghostbirds
  • Platform for global exchange and solidarity

Expectations & Outcomes:

  • Artists may submit up to three works (postcards or envelope submissions)
  • All artworks donated for fundraising auction; proceeds benefit grassroots organizations in the Global South and conflict-affected regions

Application Fee: None

Application Requirements:

  • Mail works (up to 3) to Atelier Ghostbirds (see address below)
  • Each piece must include on back: name, title (if any), medium, and location
  • Complete the online submission form

How to Apply:

Mail works to:
Atelier Ghostbirds
Rua da Paz 4, 6-A
2500-165 Caldas da Rainha
PORTUGAL

Contact Information 

Exhibition