Shonna Pryor

Shonna Pryor is a conceptual artist, art programs producer, and Visual Arts Educator at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). She holds an MFA from SAIC, a Master of Science in Media Management from The New School, and a BFA from College for Creative Studies. Her practice explores Afrofuturist aesthetics, food theory, and sociocultural dynamics through multidisciplinary mediums including painting, installation, and public programming.

• Teaches Introduction to Oil Painting in Adult Continuing Education
• Community initiatives include STEM-inspired youth programs and collaborative exhibitions addressing social equity
• Residencies include Hyde Park Art Center, High Concept Labs, and Chicago Council on Science and Technology

Recent recognition includes a 2025 Jeremy Noble Grant for creativity in community healing and a 2024 Fred Moten Fellowship. Her work has been exhibited nationally and broadcast on WTTW/PBS.

• Key exhibitions: Small Wall Project (2025), Of Portals and Pathways (2022-2023)
• Curatorial work includes Female Curves TV series (2014) and co-curation of Dialogical Self (2011)