Laine Rettmer

Laine Rettmer is an Assistant Professor in Photography at Rhode Island School of Design, working at the intersection of video art, opera direction, and critical theory. Their practice deconstructs historical narratives through feminist and queer perspectives, with exhibitions spanning major institutions like MoMA, Brooklyn Museum, and international festivals.

Research Focus:

• Reinterpretation of mythology/history through non-linear storytelling
• Feminist and queer dialogues in classical/contemporary opera
• Multimedia narratives exploring Western utopian concepts
• Cross-disciplinary performance as critical intervention

Awards & Fellowships:

• National Endowment for the Arts Grants (2)
• Warhol Foundation Grant
• MAP Fund grant
• HFBK Hamburg Art Alliance Fellowship
• Center for Arts Design and Social Research Fellowship

Residencies & Affiliations:

• MassArt, Vermont Studio Center, Skaftfell Center (Iceland), Watermill Foundation
• Opera Omaha, Boston Lyric Opera, Beth Morrison Productions

Their opera direction includes acclaimed productions like the feature film La bohème (distributed in Japan) and the Prototype Festival premiere Adoration, touring to LA Opera.