This December–January, the Darden Mill will host Apertures of Appalachia, a community photo exhibition celebrating the people, places, and stories of our region. We’re inviting local photographers—hobbyist to pro—to display their work in our gallery. The theme is wide open: animals, landscapes, people, trains—if it’s Appalachian, it belongs. We’ll also host artist talks and hands-on how-to sessions throughout the run. Let us know if you want to participate!

Exhibit Run: Dec 6, 2025 – Jan 25, 2026

Venue: Darden Mill / Appalachian Forest Discovery Center (Elkins, WV)

Eligibility: Photographers living or working in the greater Appalachian region. All experience levels welcome.

Theme

Anything distinctly Appalachian: working landscapes, rails and rivers, industry and artistry, wildlife, seasons, community life, portraits, archival re-photography, and more. Color or B&W.

How to Submit

Deadline: Friday, Nov 21, 2025, 11:59 PM
Email jeffrey@afnha.org with subject “Apertures Submission – Your Name”. 

Attach up to 5 JPEGs (1500–2000 px on the long edge; filename: Lastname_Title_01.jpg).

Include a 1–2 sentence caption per image (who/what/where; month/year), and your name, town, phone, and website/IG (optional). 

Indicate if work is for sale and your price (optional).

Selection & Notifications

A small curatorial team will review for fit, clarity, and variety. 

Notifications by Sunday, Nov 23, 2025, with framing/delivery instructions.

Framing & Delivery

Ready-to-hang prints only (wired frames or gallery clips). 

Suggested sizes: 8×10 to 16×20 (or equivalent). 

Artwork drop-off: Nov 29–30, 12–4 PM at the Darden Mill. Pickup: Jan 26–27, 12–4 PM.

Sales

This is a community exhibit with no commission. Any sales are handled directly between the artist and buyer.

Public Programs

Opening reception: Fri, Dec 5, 6–8 PM (short lightning talks). How-to sessions / talks scheduled during the run; details announced after selections. If you’d like to present or demo, note it in your submission.

Access & Credits

The gallery is on the first floor of the Darden Mill. Please tell us if you need assistance. By submitting, artists grant the Darden Mill permission to use submitted images for exhibit marketing and documentation; credit will be given in all uses.

Questions? Email jeffrey@afnha.org.