Jessica Smith

Jessica Smith is a Professor of Fibers at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) since 2007. She holds an M.F.A. in Design (University of Kansas) and a B.F.A. in Painting (University of Washington). Her academic career includes roles at Moore College of Art and Design (2003–05) and Seattle Art Institute (2006–07). Smith specializes in textile design, transnational artisan partnerships, and material culture studies, with a focus on Cambodia's textile traditions and historical decorative arts.

Her research explores the intersection of textiles with social, economic, and cultural histories. Notable works include analyses of provenance in slave quarters textiles and the ethical dimensions of global artisan collaborations. She has been recognized with awards like the Pasold Research Award (2012) and SCAD Faculty Development Grant (2015–16).

Smith’s exhibitions include Fold Unfold (2017) and Domestic Element (2005), while her commissioned works include South Beach Toile (2005) for Art Basel Miami. Her publications span conferences on design history, economic anthropology, and decorative arts.