Joel Parsons

Joel Parsons is an Assistant Professor of Art, Director of Clough-Hanson Gallery, and Chair of the Gender and Sexuality Studies Program at Rhodes College. His interdisciplinary work bridges queer intimacy, performance art, drawing, and curatorial practice.

• Education: BA (Rhodes College, Phi Beta Kappa), MFA (School of the Art Institute of Chicago)
• Primary roles: Artist, Curator, Writer, Educator
• Co-founder of Beige, a queer-focused alternative gallery/performance space

Research & Practice: Focuses on queer identity through experimental drawing, performance, and ephemeral art. Combines humor and vulnerability in exploring themes of estrangement, identification, and community-building.

Awards & Grants:

• Tom of Finland Foundation Residency
• Mellon Grant for Pedagogical Innovation
• Mellon Grant for Liberal Arts and Social Justice
• Tennessee Association of Museums Award of Excellence
• John Adams MFA Fellowship
• Rhodes College Hall of Fame
• Thomas J. Watson Fellowship

Labs & Initiatives: Co-founded Beige gallery with Steven McMahon, serving as a platform for queer artists' experimental work and performances.