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ABOUT The Artist

Makenzie Hillegass, a graduate with a BFA in Photography from Arcadia University, embarks on her artistic journey with a profound connection to the natural world. Makenzie's work delves into the intricate dance between individuals and their surroundings, weaving together the threads of time with a blend of historical echoes and contemporary perspectives.

 

In her dynamic portfolio, Makenzie seamlessly transitions between introspective self-portraiture and a documentary focus, exploring environmental narratives. Her lens becomes a storyteller, capturing the nuances of diverse landscapes and delving into the symbiotic relationship between humanity and the ever-changing environment.

 

With a skillful marriage of technical precision and emotional resonance, Makenzie invites viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of people and the natural world. Her work is marked by a profound exploration of how one's environment shapes their identity, both at a cultural and individual level. This fascination with the intricacies of human identity is prominently reflected in her self-portraiture, Through each photograph, she unfolds narratives that echo through time, each one imprinted with the enduring story of our influence and connection to the Earth.

Makenzie Hillegass

Phone: 520-499-9833

Email: makenzieleighphotography@gmail.com

 

Education

BFA in Studio Art, Photography Concentration, Arcadia University (2023)

Residencies

  • Arcadia University Summer Residency, Artist-in-Residence – Philadelphia

  • Burren College of Art, Artist-in-Residence – Ballyvaughan, Ireland 

 

Exhibitions

  • First Annual Cremona Morrey Art Exhibition, Arcadia University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • Immersed, Burren College of Art – Ballyvaughan, Ireland 

  • Self Portrait Exhibition, Decode Gallery – Tucson, Arizona 

  • Creative Quarterly Issue 68, Creative Quarterly Journal – Online Exhibition

  • Son of a Thesis (I), Judith Taylor Gallery -- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • The Royal Visit, Rosedale Gallery -- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • Senior Thesis Exhibition, Arcadia University -- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • Monochromes, Millepiani -- Rome, Italy 

  • Forgotten Places, Rome Art Week -- Rome, Italy

 

Recognition & Awards 

  • Runner-Up, First-Annual Cremona Morrey Exhibition – Philadelphia

  • Honorable Mention, Creative Quarterly Issue 68 – Online Exhibition 

  • 2023 Alumni Golden Disc Nominee -- Arcadia University  

 

Work Experience

  • Darkroom Lab Technician, Arcadia University, (2020-2023)

  • Exhibition Photographer, Arcadia University, (2021-2023)

  • Consultant, Monument Camera, (2023)

  • Instagram

Group Exhibition:
July 9 - August 6, 2021
Self-Portrait 
Decode Gallery in Tucson, Arizona
https://www.decodegallery.com/exhibitions/self-portrait/

Online Group Exhibition:
November 2022
CQ Issue No. 68
Creative Quarterly 
https://www.cqjournal.com/gallery/68/hillegass-makenzie-96855-01 

International Group Exhibition:
October 10 -20, 2023
Monochromes
The Milliepiani in Rome, Italy
https://www.loosenart.com/blogs/magazine/monochromes

International Group Exhibition:
October 20 -31, 2023
Forgotten Places
The Milliepiani in Rome, Italy
https://www.loosenart.com/blogs/magazine/forgotten-places

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