The year-end lists of photobooks have started to come out and I was thrilled to see that Martin Parr chose Felipe Russo’s book, Centro. Felipe is yet another success story from the amazing Hartford Art School International Limited-Residency Photography MFA Program. Since its inception in 2010, I’ve participated in this program and have been astonished by the success of the students. This success is largely due to the vision of the program’s director, Robert Lyons. By hosting intensive sessions in New York City, San Francisco, Berlin as well as Hartford, Robert has helped give the students a global perspective. Additionally Robert and his team have continually emphasized the importance of the photobook. Upon graduation, each student produces a finished book dummy along with an exhibition. From this have come highly acclaimed published books by J. Carrier (MACK), Bryan Schutmaat (Silas Finch) and others.
Over the years I’ve visited dozens of MFA programs and have yet to find one that rivals Hartford in the quality of its graduates. I’m grateful to be associated with the program and am eager to see who comes on board in the future.
To apply for the program (due January 15), go here: http://www.hartfordphotomfa.org/content/admissions