Zuri Washington

Zuri Washington is a Continuing Studies Instructor in the Department of Photography at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). They hold a BFA from Northern Illinois University (2015) and an MFA from SAIC (2018). Their work focuses on urban landscapes and photography, blending technical skill with conceptual exploration.

Education:

• BFA in Photography, Northern Illinois University, 2015
• MFA in Photography, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 2018

Research & Exhibitions: Washington’s practice emphasizes Chicago’s architectural and urban identity. Key exhibitions include solo and group shows at the Kubota Garage (Japan), NIU Art Museum, Roots and Culture, Sullivan Galleries, and Aurora Public Arts Commission. Their work explores how photography documents and interprets urban environments.

Awards:

• John and Eunice Johnson Scholarship
• Leroy Neiman Scholarship
• Helen Merritt Scholarship

Teaching & Grants: Currently teaches Urban Photography in SAIC’s Adult Continuing Education program (Summer 2025). Courses emphasize manual camera techniques and Chicago’s photographic legacy, drawing from renowned photographers like Aaron Siskind and Harry Callahan.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the Panchromatic Art Collective and contributes to Lillstreet Art Gallery’s catalog initiatives.