the vulnerable man
art meets activism: redefining masculinity + empowering vulnerability
open call
The Starving Artist invites male-identifying (he/they) artists to participate in The Vulnerable Man, a virtual exhibition and publication that centers on masculinity, men’s mental health, and lived experiences in non-traditional male bodies.
This project seeks to challenge stereotypes, foster vulnerability, and create a space for meaningful dialogue about what it means to live as a man today. Through this initiative, we hope to amplify diverse voices and share stories that often go unheard.
artistic mediums
Artists are encouraged to explore diverse artistic mediums, that can be displayed in a Virtual Gallery Space including but not limited to:
Painting, drawing, and illustration
Sculpture and installation (Images of work)
Photography and digital art
Mixed media and collage
Performance and interactive art
Video art and animation
No AI Generated Content
details
Locations: Global submissions welcomed
Ages: Open to artists of all 13+ due to sensitive topics
Number of works: Each artist may submit up to 10 pieces
🗓️ please apply here
Google Form: https://forms.gle/EgWa1Y3janqURGtY9
Submission Deadline: Jan 30th, 2025
📍 contact
There is no submission fee and no participation fee as we firmly believe in providing an accessible platform for artists to share their voices and stories.
themes to explore
mental health
Reflect on the challenges and triumphs of navigating mental health as a man. Contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding men's mental well-being.
healthy coping mechanisms
Explore the intersections of artworks that explore and address prevention for reducing drug-related harm and creating healthier citizens and communities
masculinity + vulnerability
Examine and deconstruct societal norms around masculinity. Share stories of vulnerability, resilience, and personal growth.
non-traditional male bodies
Highlight lived experiences of those whose bodies or identities do not fit traditional male norms, celebrating individuality and self-expression.
activism + empowerment
Use your art to inspire conversations, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for mental health and gender equity.
project curators
sidhant maharaj
Sidhant Maharaj is a non-binary, emerging Indo-Fijian artist based in Fiji, recognized for their work as a fashion designer and stylist. Now expanding into new artistic realms beyond fashion, Sidhant aims to enhance the visibility of queer art. As an intersectional queer feminist activist, their creations challenge conventional perceptions and invite audiences to engage with the complexities of gender and sexuality in contemporary life.
contact sidhant
raunak singh
Raunak Singh is a Glasgow-based professional artist from India, specializing in photography, filmmaking. With a particular focus on food and the people connected to it, Raunak is driven by a strong commitment to raising awareness about mental health, utilizing his artistic work as a platform for promoting positive change.
contact raunak
stay in touch
If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to reach out to the same email address.
hello.thestarvingartist@gmail.com
Disclaimer
By submitting your artwork to The Starving Artist for The Vulnerable Man exhibition & publication, you agree to the following:
The Starving Artist Initiative has permission to use & showcase your artwork for marketing, image use, & publication purposes. We do not sell your artworks or charge for participation. Any funds raised from sales of publications will support The Starving Artist Fund.
By submitting your artwork to The Starving Artist for The Vulnerable Man exhibition & publication, you agree to the following:
The Starving Artist Initiative has permission to use & showcase your artwork for marketing, image use, & publication purposes. We do not sell your artworks or charge for participation. Any funds raised from sales of publications will support The Starving Artist Fund.
We can feature your work in the exhibition & publication indefinitely unless agreed upon otherwise. We can reproduce & edit images of your artwork for promotional, design & documentation purposes.
Publication and Exhibitions: Your artwork may be included in the publication, exhibitions & media publicity. Each artist will receive a digital download, but no monetary compensation will be provided. The Starving Artist is not liable for any harm, loss or damage during any stage of the project process.
Publication and Exhibitions: Your artwork may be included in the publication, exhibitions & media publicity. Each artist will receive a digital download, but no monetary compensation will be provided. The Starving Artist is not liable for any harm, loss or damage during any stage of the project process.
By submitting your artwork, you confirm your understanding and agreement to these terms.
the starving artist © 2025
All images and content are copyright of The Starving Artist & the artists featured.
They cannot be reproduced without explicit authorization and credits.