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February 21st | FreeSubsurface: A behind the rock exhibition
Film, Culture, and the New Creative Economy. Come see what creativity looks like in the post slop world.
We’re in a moment where technology is changing how creative work gets made—and what the world gets served. SUBSURFACE is our way of keeping the signal strong: a day for human-made films, real community, and the kind of creative ambition that doesn’t fit neatly into a feed.
What to Expect:
❋ Gallery Explore the gallery, during the social hour. Featuring local works, props costume pieces and more then see them on screen with the community showcase.
❋ Studio PresentationThe world is changing, and so is creativity, let us share our take with you and see how we think creativity endures in the age of AI.
❋ Community ShowcaseConnection is a core part of the artistic process. Come and see creatives and explore what it takes to be creative in 2026.
❋ Studio ShowcaseOur events prioritize comfort, safety, and respect—so you can show up as you are and fully engage in the process.
Register to attend
Register to attend
Seeking submissions for Community Work
Submit to have your work shown! Submission deadline is February 10th
more details
REGister for screening
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click the link
REGister for screening |||| click the link
Accepted formats: MP4 Cinema, Zines, Short films or minidocs under 25 minutes. All works subject to approval.
DM @behindtherockproductions on Instagram with questions.
Event Details
❋ Film, Community, and the Future We Refuse to Surrender
❋ SUBSURFACE is a free community screening day at Public Works Gallery (2141 W North Ave, Chicago)—part cinema hang, part cultural gathering. We’ll screen films and work submitted to Behind The Rock, then close with a short presentation from BTR on what’s happening to the industry: how AI and algorithmic content are reshaping creativity, why audiences are starving for meaning, and what we’re building to help human-made work thrive.
❋ Merch + donations support the artists.
Event Itinerary
12:00 PM — Doors Open
Arrive, grab a drink, meet fellow creatives, and explore the space.
1:00–4:00 PM — Curated Screenings
A rotating selection of original short-form work, presented in structured blocks.
5:00 PM — Networking Hour
Connect with filmmakers, artists, collaborators, and partners.
6:00 PM — Studio Presentation
A short presentation on the creative vision, values, and future of the studio.
7:00 PM — Event Concludes