Garland Mclaurin

Garland Mclaurin is a Professor of Film and Television at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), where he teaches since Fall 2023. He holds an M.F.A. from New York University and a B.A. from Howard University. His professional career spans over two decades in cinematography, documentary production, and academic instruction. Mclaurin has held adjunct roles at institutions including City College of New York, University of Georgia, and Howard University. His research and creative work focus on African American narratives, social issues in media, and documentary filmmaking techniques.

Notable professional projects include cinematography for Muro: The Wall (2022–23), Driving While Black, and co-direction of the acclaimed PBS series 180 Days A Year: Inside an American High School (2013). He has received prestigious awards such as the Sundance Film Festival Cinematography Award and the Peabody Award. Mclaurin’s work often explores themes of race, community, and historical memory through both narrative and documentary formats.

• Awards: Princess Grace Award (2019), Peabody Award (2013), Sundance Recognition (2017)
• Grants: DC Commission of the Arts and Humanities Grants (2005, 2000), Princess Grace Artists Grant (1999)

He has served as a judge for Emmy News & Documentary Projects, Film Independent Spirit Awards, and INPUT Global Public Television. His leadership includes roles at Black Public Media and panel participation at SXSW and the Duke Center for Documentary Studies.