What is Upstream?
Upstream is a creative publishing collective of writers and artists dedicated to collaborative making and experimental forms of knowledge production. We host generative workshops and publish experimental work at the intersection of art and ecology.
Where are you located?
We live and work in Lenapehoking, so-called Philadelphia, a city of layered ground, buried streams, and ongoing displacement, as well as deep histories of community resistance. We have drawn inspiration and support from a long lineage of self-organized artist and publishing communities here. We typically meet in our homes across the city or online, gathering to share meals, ideas, and the slow work of editing and collaboration.
Who is Upstream for?
Our primary audience is Philadelphia-based artists, writers, researchers, and organizers whose practices engage questions of ecology, land, and relation. Many of our contributors are early-career or institutionally adjacent, seeking spaces for critical exchange and collective study beyond traditional academic or art spaces. That being said, we welcome all seeking a creative outlet for work that questions place, personhood, and collective life.
Submissions
What can I submit?
For our first issue, we welcome submissions that reimagine “source” as an ongoing, interconnected process rather than a single point of origin. Submissions can include essays, artwork, photography, poetry, hybrid forms, and more. Further guidelines are here.
Do I have to live in Philadelphia to contribute work?
While we are prioritizing submissions from folks currently or formerly based in Philadelphia, we will consider submissions from elsewhere.
Do I need to be an artist, writer, or designer to submit?
No! We welcome contributions from anyone interested in engaging with our themes.
What are the length or format requirements for written pieces?
Pieces can range in length, with short-form essays aiming to be around 500 words and long-form around 1,000-2,000 words. Poetry submissions have no minimum or maximum expectations. We'll work with contributors to determine the appropriate length and form of final pieces.
Can I submit more than one piece?
Yes, multiple submissions are allowed as long as each adheres to the guidelines.
What is the deadline for submissions?
We are accepting submissions on a rolling basis. We will work with contributors to determine the timeline for publication.
Can I submit a pitch instead of a completed work?
Yes, pitches are required before submitting completed works.
What is the publishing process?
An editor will work with you to see your piece through from development to completion; the publication timeline can be catered to your process. Depending on the needs of your piece, you may be invited to participate in group workshops and receive feedback from other collaborators and editors. Currently, individual pieces are being published on the Upstream website on a rolling basis, with special print issues released semi-annually.
Getting Involved
How can I join the Upstream team?
Fill out our interest form and/or reach out to us through instagram or email. We’ll contact you back directly and/or invite you to a public info session.
What roles are available for volunteers or contributors?
Roles include editorial, design, outreach, admin, events coordination, curatorial and more.
Do I need to attend meetings in person?
We do meet in person, but offer hybrid options to accommodate remote contributors.
What kind of commitment is involved?
While there is no single way to be involved, we hope that people in the collective will communicate capacity and commit to attending meetings.