SVA presents “Mentors,” an exhibition of work by BFA Photography and Video students inspired by their working relationships with world-renowned artists, curators, editors, and directors from the global arts community. Curated by department chair Joseph Maida, “Mentors” will be on view Tuesday, March 11, through Saturday, March 22, at the SVA Chelsea Gallery, 601 W 26th St, 15th floor, New York City.

The Mentors program in the BFA Photography and Video Department at SVA is designed to cultivate relationships between established and emerging artists and to introduce new talent to the broader community. Established in 1992, this program pairs fourth-year students with key figures in the arts community, giving them professional insight into their work during a culminating point in their education.

Drawn from the ranks of the industry’s best-known photographers, curators, art directors, publishers, art dealers, critics, and writers, mentors are matched with students based on their fields of expertise and the students’ areas of concentration. This year’s mentors include, among many others, Clare Grafik, Head of Exhibitions, The Photographers’ Gallery, London, UK; La Frances Hui, Curator, Department of Film, The Museum of Modern Art; Chrissie Iles, Anne & Joel Ehrenkranz Curator, Whitney Museum of American Art; Alex Prager, Artist; Dean Sameshima, Artist; Nadia Vellam, Photo and Video Director, T: The New York Times Style Magazine; and Carmen Winant, Artist; Professor, The Ohio State University.

The BFA Photography and Video Department at SVA is located in the heart of New York City, the epicenter of art, culture, fashion, commerce, and activism. The department’s renowned faculty of professionals connects students to a remarkable network, which is extended through the Mentors program. Alumni go on to work successfully in all creative fields and often hire fellow graduates because of a shared artistic language and the program’s record of accomplishment.

The SVA Chelsea Gallery is open Monday through Saturday, from 10:00am to 6:00pm, and closed on Sundays. It is fully accessible by wheelchair.

Exhibition

Mentors 2025

SVA Chelsea Gallery

Reception