Literary Journal

Pattern Recognition

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Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listedCanada

About the magazine

Pattern Recognition is an independent curatorial project and online platform founded to support emerging and underrepresented artists working across media. With an ethos rooted in process, experimentation, and critical dialogue, it operates as a recurring open call and exhibition series rather than a traditional gallery or residency. The organization prioritizes work that challenges conventional formats and invites viewers to reconsider the familiar, often through conceptual or research-driven practices. Its mission is to provide a low-stakes, high-visibility entry point for artists who may not have commercial representation, fostering a community that values thoughtful risk-taking over market polish.

Editorial focus

Pattern Recognition publishes well-written short fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and comics. Experimentation is always welcome.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31

Reading feeNo

PaymentContributor copies only

Response timeLess than 3 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Approach Pattern Recognition with a clear, concise proposal that foregrounds your process and conceptual concerns rather than a polished sales pitch. They favor experimentation and critical thinking, so include a brief artist statement and 5–10 images or excerpts of recent work, with a link to your website or portfolio. Since the platform is independent and likely volunteer-run, expect a slower response time and be patient with follow-ups. Read any current call guidelines carefully—themes and deadlines may shift—and tailor your submission to the specific opportunity rather than sending a generic package. There is no fee mentioned, but confirm before submitting.

We are particularly interested in compositions conceived from an “alternative” Gen-X perspective. Just imagine that the North America of 1989 through 1995 never ended, the Spice Girls and the Internet never happened, and Justin Bieber was never even born. Of the Kardashians, we won’t even speak. Copies of Pattern Recognition numbers 1 through 6 are available for sale online.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

1 listed

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