Susan Close

Dr. Susan Close is an Associate Professor in the Department of Interior Design at the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Architecture, and a Senior Fellow at St. John’s College. She holds a Ph.D. in Cultural Analysis from the University of Amsterdam, an M.A. in Canadian Art History from Carleton University, and a B.F.A. in Photography and Art History from the University of Saskatchewan. Her research focuses on intersections between photography, identity, gender, and the built environment, with particular attention to social activism and critical theory.

Dr. Close’s work explores how photography constructs identity through historical and contemporary practices, including studies of Canadian women photographers and Aboriginal representation. She has curated exhibitions for institutions such as Library and Archives Canada and Gallery 111, and her photographic work is held in collections like the Canada Council Art Bank. She has received SSHRC fellowships and grants from the Canada Council for the Arts.

Her teaching includes interdisciplinary courses on design theory, photography, and critical perspectives. Recent courses include IDES 7180 Theory Seminar 1 and EVIE 4000 History and Theory 2. She has mentored students through Undergraduate Research Awards and community programs, such as visual literacy initiatives in Ottawa schools.

Awarded the Carl Nelson Jr. Teaching Award in 2010, Dr. Close’s scholarly contributions include her monograph *Framing Identity: Social Practices of Photography in Canada (1880-1920)*, shortlisted for three Manitoba Book Awards. She is currently developing a new book on photography and the built environment, alongside curatorial and creative projects showcased at *www.susanclose.com*.