Jessica Labatte

Jessica Labatte is Associate Professor of Photography and Director of the School of Art and Design at Northern Illinois University, part of the College of Visual and Performing Arts. With an M.F.A. and B.F.A. from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, she brings extensive expertise in photographic arts to her academic leadership role and artistic practice.

Her educational background includes:

• M.F.A., School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Emphasis: Photography)
• B.F.A., School of the Art Institute of Chicago (Emphasis: Photography)

Professor Labatte's research focuses on contemporary photography, exploring the intersections of time, memory, and visual perception through still life compositions. Her work often features floral arrangements and everyday objects, examining how photography can capture fleeting moments and transform ordinary scenes into profound visual statements. Recent series like 'Shade Garden' and 'Shadow Plants' demonstrate her interest in how light interacts with natural forms and how photographs can preserve ephemeral beauty. Her artistic practice combines traditional film techniques with digital manipulation, deliberately incorporating imperfections like dust and scratches as part of her artistic statement about authenticity.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on color theory, photographic practice, and art education. Her contributions span traditional academic publications, exhibition catalogs, and critical reviews, with particular emphasis on how photographic techniques can expand our understanding of visual perception and time. Her work demonstrates a consistent exploration of abstraction within photographic practice and the integration of personal experience with artistic expression.

Her numerous awards and residencies include:

• Artist Residency in Motherhood, Winfield, IL (2016)
• Artist in Residence, Latitude, Chicago, IL (2015)
• Artist in Residence, ACRE, Steuben, WI (2015)
• Artist in Residence, Light Work, Syracuse, NY (2014)
• Loretta Grellner Scholarship, Ox-Bow School of Art (2013)
• Chicago Artist Assistant Program Grant (2012)

As an educator, Professor Labatte teaches a comprehensive range of photography courses from beginning to advanced levels, including specialized courses in digital photography, experimental techniques, and photographic theory. Her leadership as Director of the School of Art and Design involves overseeing academic programs, faculty development, and strategic planning for the department's growth. Her integration of personal experience with artistic practice, particularly her exploration of motherhood and domestic spaces, offers unique perspectives that inform both her creative work and her approach to art education.

Professor Labatte maintains an active studio practice with representation by Western Exhibitions in Chicago. Her personal website showcases her photographic series and provides insight into her creative process, which often involves collaborations with her assistants and incorporates elements from her domestic life and garden.