About us
Photo Saloon is a space for photographs and the people who make them.
Structured as a monthly in person gathering rooted in the joy of sharing work, photographers are invited to present works ranging from ideas in motion to completed projects. When it comes to subject matter, anything goes.
Gatherings are rooted in genuine interest in the work and each other. Feedback is curious and rooted in care. Take what lands. Leave what doesn’t.
Photo Saloon exists to nurture creative momentum, deepen photographic taste, and remind us that making work doesn’t have to be a solo path.
A monthly respite from social media. An antithesis of photo bro culture. A photo party. A third space. A space to explore creative intuition. An opportunity to use art as resistance. A place to see and be seen. Put your work on the table. Stay awhile. Leave fed.
Photo Saloon is for women, nonbinary, trans, and gender expansive artists working within a lens based medium.
Values and Ethos
Community + Collective
We believe in the power of the collective. We thrive when we show up for each other, uplifting one another with care and respect.
Inclusivity
Photo Saloon aims to create a space for women and gender diverse people to express themselves authentically. Folks’ lived experience enrich the greater whole.
Anything Goes
Show up. Bring your work in whatever phase it is in. Works in progress welcome.
Empowerment Through Feedback
Constructive feedback can be a gift. Feedback is intended to focus on growth, rather than judgment or competition.
Creativity as Resistance
Our art can challenge norms, explore new narratives, + reclaim space. We honor the unique perspectives that emerge from our community.
Continuous Growth
We commit to learning about our craft, about each other, + about ourselves.
Safety and Respect
Take care of yourself, take care of your community. We aim to hold a space that is physically and emotionally safe. We acknowledge that harm is a reality in all community spaces, and we aim to approach harm with care and a collective commitment to repair.
Photo Saloon based in Oakland, CA and is founded by Cat Coppenrath