DENISON SENIOR SEEKS CONNECTIONS IN CHICAGO'S PHOTOGRAPHY AND FINE ARTS SCENE

#engagementstory

By MAX LEISTEN

Breaking into the photography and curation world in a city like Chicago? Not easy. The industry is competitive, the options are endless, and knowing where to start can feel impossible. But why go it alone when others have already paved the way?

By reaching out to alumni, one Denison student got something far more valuable than a simple career tip: they gained real connections, guidance from professionals, and even introductions to industry experts. Instead of second-guessing their next move, they now have a clearer path forward, shaping both their coursework and art practice.

Because sometimes, the best way to move ahead isn’t through endless research. It’s by talking to the people who’ve been there.

Keep it simple,

Max

The "ask"

I am a senior Visual Arts major specializing in photography, with a minor in Educational Studies at Denison University.

My work focuses on the interconnectedness of people and their existence within the material world. I am an aspiring portrait photographer and emerging curator, seeking guidance from experienced photographers, artists, and curators, particularly in the Chicagoland area. I am interested in learning about their career journeys, how they developed their clientele, and how they developed their brand.

I am currently seeking to curate my first exhibition and would appreciate advice on gaining access to venues, collaborating with artists and fellow curators, and effectively presenting my exhibition to the public. I have experience marketing organizations on campus, but I would love to hear what may be the best practices for showcasing an exhibition professionally.

I would be grateful for any introductions, advice, or opportunities to connect with alumni and make a strong start in Curation and the Fine Arts.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

The "give"

Hello! I have known four photographers whose stories may interest you. They have much in common, especially – #1 they had good day jobs. #2 they didn’t give up their day jobs. You can google all of them.

Gary Faye of Southern California. Beautiful photographic work and large format. His day job at Camera West, a high-end photography shop in Southern California, gives him access to expensive equipment he needs.
Tom Smith of Miami, Florida majored in photography and started publishing a wine magazine. The magazine provided his photo subjects and a good living.
Gary Kerr of Southern California. Established a photographic printing shop that is now at the very top. His most notable work is specialized photography of museum and private fine art collections.
Janet Cass of Erdenheim, Pennsylvania and Southern California. Fine Arts Painting degree and then sales of Herman Miller office furniture. Her photographs are in many corporate and private collections and in the permanent collection of the Palm Springs Art Museum. She entered many art shows and was an active member of museum groups.

Bon courage!

The follow-up

Thank you so much for reaching out and providing me with those valuable names. I’ve been researching their careers and have already learned a great deal about their diverse paths in the arts.

Would it be alright if I mentioned that you connected us? I’d happily share your name and my brief interaction with you on Ask A Denisonian.

Thank you again for your generosity!

The feedback

By reaching out to the alumni I learned so much about my field, and paths to entering my field in photography and printing. As well, I was put into contact with professionals in my field that I am in contact with at the moment. I’ve taken note of all the conversation and will be applying my knowledge to my art practice and course work soon. I am so grateful for this platform!! Thank you!

Ready to make it simple for everyone?

Let’s find a time for Max & team to show you just how smart, simple, and scalable it can truly be for alumni and students to connect to one another for advice and support. We promise you’ll be inspired by how artificial intelligence can be a force for good.

Protopia’s artificial intelligence technology makes it truly simple for everyone in your community to connect for advice and support. Without another app to sign up for or learn.

Delivering Alumni As A Service across the entire learner’s journey.

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