Bethany Collins

Bethany Collins is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Visual Arts at the University of Chicago. She holds a BA in Studio Art and Photojournalism from the University of Alabama (2007) and an MFA from Georgia State University (2012). Her work critically examines race, language, and American history through multidisciplinary practices including drawing, performance, and artist books. Notable exhibitions include presentations at the Frist Museum (Nashville), Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Awards include the 2022 Joan Mitchell Fellowship, Hudgens Prize (2015), and Efroymson Fellowship (2018).

Research focuses on contradictions within language and historical narratives, such as contronyms and contrafacta in patriotic hymns. Recent projects include The Battle Hymn of the Republic: A Hymnal (2023) and performances exploring democratic metaphors through choral singing. Her practice bridges visual art with social commentary, addressing themes of belonging and national identity.