VIRTUAL WORKSHOP: Smartphone Storytelling

Anderson Ranch’s January Studio Sessions provide artists the opportunity to work on independent projects while receiving mentoring and critique sessions with Anderson Ranch artistic staff. Each participant receives an assigned studio space, orientation, and access to equipment, as well as some morning group demonstrations and / or critiques. This program affords artists the experience enjoyed by national and international artists who access our state-of-the-art studios. Participants may expand their practices, take artistic risks, try new media or complete works for exhibition. IMPORTANT DETAILS: Students will be responsible for all material costs associated with their projects. Private dorm rooms are available at Anderson Ranch for an additional fee; click here to view January 2025 lodging options. TO APPLY: Applicants must submit project proposals or portfolios for approval. Contact Esther Nooner with questions and to apply: [email protected]

Two art forms collide in this fascinating look at the intersection of photography and painting. Join us for an engaging exploration of the artistic synthesis between these two distinct art forms. Discover new transfer techniques that integrate photographic images and text directly onto painted surfaces. Using traditional collage and photomontage, master new methods that allow for opaque and translucent layers. Reductive methods such as sanding and scraping reveal the history of earlier photographic layers and suggest an archaeological approach to image development. We begin each morning with a technical demonstration illustrated with visual examples from contemporary art. A range of integrated photographic painting approaches will be introduced on paper, canvas and panels in acrylic. By midweek, our investigations continue to larger artworks tailored to each student.

The digital age has opened new possibilities for visual storytellers of all kinds—from documentary photographers and photojournalists to conceptual artists—offering greater authorship, control, and reach. This workshop guides participants through the process of developing and sustaining a long-term personal project, with a focus on narrative development, creative vision, and strategies for sharing work with the world. Participants will learn how to: Identify and pursue a subject driven by personal passion. Build a compelling visual narrative with a distinct style. Sustain long-term projects with intention and discipline. Navigate the industry, make professional connections, and find opportunities for dissemination. The workshop embraces a wide range of visual languages and technologies, from still photography and digital video to transmedia and social media storytelling. Through hands-on guidance, participants will explore how to harness these tools to become more effective, impactful storytellers. The program is led by Ed Kashi, with over 45 years of freelance experience, and James Estrin, senior staff photographer at The New York Times and co-founder of the NYT Lens blog. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge, insight, and mentorship to help participants push their work to new levels. Program Dates: May 1, 2026 – April 15, 2028 In-Person Sessions at Anderson Ranch: Aug 17 - Aug 21, 2026 Aug 16 - Aug 20, 2027 This two-year immersive program is designed for dedicated artists seeking individualized mentorship, critical feedback, and a supportive cohort experience. Participants engage in two week-long, in-person residencies at Anderson Ranch (one each year), complemented by ongoing virtual engagement throughout the program. Each year includes personalized one-on-one mentorship sessions via Zoom and a virtual group critique held in December. The program concludes with a final Zoom meeting in April 2028. Tuition is listed per year. Lodging and meals are additional. To Apply: Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis with a deadline of January 15, 2026. To apply, please complete the 2026 Advanced Mentored Studies Online Application. A non-refundable deposit of $650 per workshop is required to reserve a space for an adult. Questions? For more information about the next session of the Advanced Mentored Studies Program, please contact: Andrea Jenkins Wallace. Vice President of Artistic Affairs and Artistic Director of Photography and New Media [email protected]