Maggie O'Hara

Maggie O'Hara serves as an Assistant Professor of Art specializing in photography at South Carolina State University within the Visual and Performing Arts Department. She began her career at SC State in January 2017 in a dual role as curator of the FAB Gallery and part-time assistant professor, teaching 1-2 classes per semester. In August 2020, she transitioned to a full-time tenure-track position as Assistant Professor of Art in photography.

Her educational background includes a Master of Fine Arts from Savannah College of Art and Design (2014) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Point Park University (2011), with additional studies at the American University of Rome. O'Hara teaches the complete photography curriculum including Darkroom Photography, Digital Photography, and Advanced Methods in Photography, along with Digital Imaging and Art Appreciation courses.

O'Hara's artistic practice focuses on photography, video works, and multimedia installations that explore themes of vulnerability, emotional expression, and performance. Her notable works include the series This Is Me Crying, Gestures of Persistence, and I'm Trying To Tell You, which have been exhibited nationally and internationally. Her work often challenges social norms around emotional expression and privacy.

Her recent artistic output shows a consistent focus on contemporary photography and multimedia art, with numerous exhibitions at venues including the Jepson Center for the Arts, Tapps Arts Center, and international venues in London and Venice. Her work frequently addresses themes of identity, vulnerability, and emotional expression through both traditional and experimental photographic techniques.

• Scholarly Publications Award, 2020 (South Carolina State University)
• Creative Practices Award, 2020 (South Carolina State University)
• Innovative Student Mentoring, Engagement & Support Award, 2020 (South Carolina State University)
• Student Incentive Scholarship, 2014-15 (Savannah College of Art and Design)
• Honors Grad Scholarship, 2014-15 (Savannah College of Art and Design)

As an educator, O'Hara maintains an active presence in her professional field beyond academia. She serves on the board for PhotoSC, a non-profit photography organization, and assists with curation and exhibition organization for local, national, and international artists. Her professional activities demonstrate a strong commitment to both artistic practice and community engagement in the visual arts.