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Jenny Lam

Artist, Artist Agent, Independent Curator, & Writer Focusing on Interactive Art & Collaboration - Artists on the Lam Founder - "Best Exhibit" -NewCity, "Best Art Blog" -Chicago Reader, "Polymath Wave-Maker" -Gapers Block

Professional Background

Jenny Lam is a multifaceted and innovative artist based in Chicago, known for her passion for making art accessible to everyone. Hailed as a “polymath wave-maker” by Gapers Block, she is celebrated for her interactive and collaborative artwork that engages both the viewers and the artists. As a self-taught multidisciplinary artist, she has made significant contributions to the local arts community as the founder of Artists on the Lam, an enterprise dedicated to championing local artists and promoting global perspectives.

After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts and Creative Writing from Columbia University in New York City, where she served as President of Postcrypt, Columbia’s undergraduate art gallery, Jenny returned to Chicago to establish her agency in 2011. Under her leadership, Artists on the Lam gained an international following and was awarded “Best Local Visual Arts Blog” in the Chicago Reader’s Best of Chicago issue, reflecting her commitment to elevate and celebrate creativity.

Jenny’s work as an independent curator has led to the development of astounding exhibitions like "I CAN DO THAT," which showcased artists from various backgrounds and was recognized as the audience choice for “Best Art Exhibit” in NewCity’s Best of Chicago issue in 2012. Her innovative curatorial style challenges preconceived notions of art, actively engaging the community and encouraging viewers to explore new ideas and experiences.

Education and Achievements

Jenny Lam is proud of her educational roots, having studied at key institutions such as Greenbriar Elementary School, Glenbrook North High School, and Northbrook Junior High School. However, her most defining academic achievement came with her graduation from Columbia University, where she honed her artistic skills and nurtured her passion for creative writing.

Among Jenny's notable achievements is her recognition as the 1st Prize Winner of the National Park Service’s Centennial Project. This accolade reflects her commitment to her craft and her ability to connect both past and present through her artwork. Further, she has been awarded the Individual Artists Program Grant from the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events to pursue her ambitious project, Dreams of a City. This ongoing large-scale participatory public art and mapping project represents her dedication to building community and drawing connections across geographical boundaries.

Community and Artistic Contributions

Jenny’s artistry goes beyond the canvas; she actively works to break barriers and inspire community members through her engaging public projects. Dreams of a City, launched in 2008, stands as her love letter to Chicago, highlighting the connections we share while breathing life into the city through collaborative mapping and participatory art. Since its revitalization in Chicago, this heartfelt initiative has allowed countless individuals to engage with art in a meaningful way and create a sense of belonging in an ever-connecting world.

Her art has been displayed at prestigious venues like the Chicago Cultural Center and the Chicago Public Library, further solidifying her status as a key player in the local arts scene. Jenny’s focus on inclusivity and engagement positions her work as a testament to the transformative power of art.

Achievements

  1. Founder and artist agent for Artists on the Lam, facilitating a platform for local artists since 2011.
  2. Winner of the Individual Artists Program Grant by City of Chicago for the “Dreams of a City” project.
  3. 1st Prize Winner of the National Park Service’s Centennial Project, showcasing her talent and dedication to art.
  4. Recognized as a thought leader in the Chicago arts community, with her exhibitions receiving multiple accolades including audience choice for “Best Art Exhibit.”
  5. Extensive experience in various art-related organizations, from curatorial roles to teaching and mentoring young artists.

Related Questions

How did Jenny Lam cultivate her multidisciplinary approach to artistry?
What inspired Jenny Lam to create the Dreams of a City project and how has it evolved over the years?
In what ways does Jenny Lam believe interactive art can transform community experiences?
How has Jenny Lam's background as a Chinese American daughter of immigrants influenced her artistic vision?
What are some of the key challenges Jenny Lam has faced while promoting local artists in Chicago?
How did Jenny Lam balance her roles as an artist, curator, and writer throughout her career?
What impact does Jenny Lam hope to achieve through her work with Artists on the Lam?
How has Jenny Lam's education at Columbia University shaped her approach to art and curation?
Jenny Lam
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Location

Chicago, Illinois, United States