For contributors, writers, artists, and storytellers
Vancouver On Ink is a free community publication that welcomes stories, poems, art, photography, and personal reflections from people in our city and beyond. We also welcome reviews of music, film, concerts, or cultural events, and knowledge or tips from those who have expertise in a certain field. Our goal is to create a space where real voices can be heard and creativity can be shared.
We publish three issues a year, and our open-call periods are usually around March, May, and November.
We normally do not set a theme, but sometimes we publish special issues. Even without themes, many submissions naturally connect with each other, which is one of the beautiful parts of community storytelling.
How to Submit
You may submit:
- Personal stories or reflections
- Artwork or photography
- Poems
- Creative nonfiction
- Original music compositions or musical scores
- Music, film, or concert/event reviews
- Knowledge or tips based on your expertise
- Community experiences
No AI-generated writing or artwork is accepted. Only AI tools used for grammar checking are acceptable. We want to honour real sharing and lived experiences.
Selection and Curating Spirit
We review all submissions with a curating spirit. If we do not choose your piece, it may simply mean it does not fit the flow of that issue. Please do not give up. Every issue has its own tone and natural connections. If your piece is selected, we will contact you by email and provide a digital copy for your reference.
Word and Format Suggestions
To support accessibility, we use larger font sizes in our print publication. For best fit:
- Written pieces: around 200 words
- Poems: around 4-8 lines
- Artwork and photos: high-resolution images (B&W)
These are suggestions, not strict rules. If you have something longer or unique to share, feel free to email us. We are always open to meaningful ideas from the community.
Additional guideline for music submissions
We welcome original music compositions in the form of sheet music or musical scores.
Please submit:
- A short excerpt if you would like to invite other musicians to interpret, respond to, or create a cover inspired by your work
If collaboration or reinterpretation is part of your intention, you are welcome to include a short note explaining how you’d like others to engage with the piece.
Please submit only original work that you own or have the rights to share.
About Promotional Content
We love supporting local businesses and artists, and we care about the stories behind the work. However, we want Vancouver On Ink to remain honest and grounded. If we receive a submission that feels like an advertisement or a sales message, we may ask you to contact us separately about advertising options instead of publishing it as an article. And who knows, if your work or business is meaningful and community centred, you can also reach out to us. We might even visit, experience it ourselves, and write a real interview for you.
Where Vancouver On Ink Is Catalogued
Vancouver On Ink is catalogued at Library and Archives Canada and the University of British Columbia Library. This helps preserve your work as part of a long-term public collection.
Want to Distribute Vancouver On Ink?
If you manage a cafe, local shop, art space, or community location and would like to carry Vancouver On Ink, please reach out. We are happy to place copies in spaces that support community stories and creativity.