Mary Jane Jacob

Mary Jane Jacob is a Professor at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she champions public, site-specific, and socially engaged art. As Executive Director of Exhibitions and Exhibition Studies, she has curated pivotal projects like Culture in Action (1993) and currently organizes exhibitions for Tate Modern. Her work bridges art practice with critical theory, emphasizing community impact and Deweyan philosophies.

• Education: MA in History of Art with Museum Orientation from University of Michigan; BFA from University of Florida.

Jacob’s research focuses on art’s transformative role in society, curatorial processes, and audience engagement. She explores how socially engaged art fosters critical thinking and bridges individual and collective experiences. Her publications and curatorial projects highlight collaborations between artists and communities to address social issues like healthcare, ecology, and urban policy.

The 15 most recent articles reflect her leadership in social practice, centering on community-centric art, Dewey’s theories, and curatorial innovation. Themes include immersive art, ethical engagement, and the role of institutions in social change.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Andy Warhol Foundation Curatorial Research Fellowship
  • Getty Residency Visiting Fellowship
  • Peter Norton Family Foundation Curator’s Grant
  • National Endowment for the Arts/Media Fellowships
  • Bellagio Study Center Residency
  • ArtTable Honoree
  • Public Art Dialogue & Women’s Caucus for Art Lifetime Achievement Awards

Jacob’s labors include directing the Institute for Curatorial Research and Practice and co-founding the Sullivan Galleries, which act as a public arm for SAIC. She emphasizes art’s role in societal transformation and has mentored numerous students and collaborators globally.