James Lutes

James Lutes is a Professor and Frederick Latimer Wells Chair in Painting at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He has taught in the Painting and Drawing department since 1983 and holds a BA from Washington State University (1978) and an MFA from SAIC (1982). His work has been exhibited internationally, including at the Whitney Biennial, Documenta IX, and The Renaissance Society.

• Illinois Arts Council Grants
• National Foundation for the Arts
• Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation Award
• Awards in the Visual Arts

Professor Lutes teaches graduate-level Painting and Drawing courses, focusing on studio practice and private mentorship. His research and creative work center on contemporary painting techniques and visual storytelling traditions.