In an era where the art of photography is experiencing profound transformations, the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence and innovation. The SCAD Class of 2024 epitomizes the university’s dedication to nurturing talents that will shape the future of visual storytelling. To celebrate this promising cohort, SCAD, in collaboration with Thames & Hudson, presents “Class of 2024”, a collection that showcases the extraordinary work of ten outstanding photographers.
This diverse group, comprising five current students and five recent alumni, hails from various corners of the globe and represents several of SCAD’s leading degree programs, including photography, advertising and branding, graphic design, and fashion design. The photographers featured in this collection are Tyler Basa from Jackson, New Jersey; Ying Chen from Shanghai, China; Davis Clem from Knoxville, Tennessee; Joel Dubroc from Mandeville, Louisiana; Will Foerster from Deland, Florida; Kourtney Iman King from Decatur, Alabama; Vino Pan from Taipei City, Taiwan; Shan Shi from Shijiazhuang, China; Xavier Thompson from Fayetteville, Georgia; and Wisdom Warner from Stone Mountain, Georgia. Each artist brings a unique perspective and style, contributing to a rich tapestry of visual narratives.
Technical Prowess Unites with Boundary-Breaking Creativity at SCAD
The SCAD Class of 2024 photographers explore a wide range of genres, from intimate portraits to expansive landscapes, and from high-fashion editorials to deeply personal projects. Their work is characterized by a distinct blend of technical prowess and creative innovation, reflecting the rigorous training and mentorship they have received at SCAD. This collection is a testament to the raw, unfiltered talent nurtured at SCAD, where students are encouraged to experiment, push boundaries, and develop a unique artistic voice that reflects their individual perspectives and experiences.
The emerging artists of the SCAD Class of 2024 are making their mark and upholding SCAD’s legacy of excellence and innovation in the arts. Their contributions will undoubtedly inspire and influence the next generation of photographers, reaffirming the transformative power of visual storytelling. Michael James O’Brien, Chair of Photography at SCAD, eloquently captures this sentiment, emphasizing photography’s profound ability to connect us to both the past and the future, creating a continuum of visual dialogue that transcends time and space. O’Brien has been instrumental in guiding this talented cohort. As Chair of Photography at SCAD, O’Brien brings his extensive experience as a photographer, teacher, curator, poet, and activist to the program. His solo exhibitions have graced cities like New York, Paris, Beijing, and London, with his work housed in prestigious collections such as the National Portrait Gallery in London and the National Museum in Berlin. O’Brien’s deep commitment to the craft offers key insights into the SCAD Photography Class of 2024. In a conversation with Whitewall, he shared what sets this class apart and how SCAD prepares its students for future success.
Michael James O’Brien, Chair of Photography at SCAD. Courtesy of Michael James O’Brien and SCAD.
WHITEWALL: What unique qualities do you believe the SCAD Photography Class of 2024 brings to the future of photography?
MICHAEL JAMES O’BRIEN: The SCAD Photography Class of 2024 brings an incredible depth and intention to their work, paired with a deep understanding of the industry’s possibilities. In their photographs, you will find techniques ranging from the earliest days of photography as a medium to the incorporation of artificial intelligence, mixed media, and beyond. At SCAD, our students are taught to refine their visions with clarity. Faculty provide guidance through a comprehensive curriculum that accelerates their career goals. Students go on to influence trends, earn recognition from media giants like The New York Times, Time, Vogue, and GQ, and collaborate with artists such as Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Lil Nas X, and Cher.
Davis Clem. “Swans”, “Blackberries series”, 2021. Courtesy of Davis Clem and SCAD.
“The SCAD Photography Class of 2024 brings an incredible depth and intention to their work, paired with a deep understanding of the industry’s possibilities,”
Michael James O’BrienKey Mentorship with Notable Artists and Brands
WW: Can you discuss the role of mentorship at SCAD and how it has impacted the development of these emerging photographers?
MJO: Mentors play a key role in all our programs at SCAD. We pay special attention to bringing guests into our classrooms who provide diverse experiences in the photography world. Over the past few years, we have hosted notable artists such as Albert Watson, Duane Michals, Le’Andra LeSeur, Robert Fairer, Tyler Mitchell, Ellen von Unwerth, and Awol Erizku, among others. This past spring, we partnered with Leica, the leading camera manufacturer and global photography brand, to celebrate SCAD’s 45th anniversary by developing an exhibition titled “Power in Perspective,” featuring compelling student work. Many of the exhibiting students had the opportunity to engage with renowned photographer and Leica ambassador Cheriss May, who served as a professional mentor, providing insights to students at all SCAD locations throughout the project. Our photography program also works closely with the School of Fine Arts and the curatorial team at the SCAD Museum of Art.
WW: How do you see the diverse backgrounds of the SCAD 2024 photographers influencing their work and the broader field of photography?
MJO: This is a direct reflection of the SCAD classroom and the world we live in, which has brought different voices into the spotlight. Embracing diversity in family backgrounds, geography, and general inspiration, the work we are presenting, teaching, and supporting allows each student to shape their own distinct point of view.
Joel Dubroc, “Ascending”, “Blue series”, 2021. Courtesy of Joel Dubroc and SCAD.
WW: Reflecting on your extensive career, how do you compare the challenges faced by today’s young photographers with those you experienced starting out?
MJO: Wow, great question! In many ways, the challenges are timeless and still revolve around intention, points of view, and meaningful substance in the work itself. When I graduated with my B.F.A. and M.F.A., the world of photography was not widely diversified. However, now we are living in a period of radical change where new representation is welcomed. I believe the world of photography is, and will be, stronger now that we are in a time of such extensive exploration.
Wisdom Warner, “Untitled”, “Dear Grandad series”, 2023. Courtesy of SCAD and Wisdom Warner.
“I believe the world of photography is, and will be, stronger now that we are in a time of such extensive exploration,”
Michael James O’Brien
WW: What are the biggest challenges that young photographers face today, and how does SCAD prepare its students to overcome them?
MJO: At SCAD, we place a huge emphasis on preparing our students for successful creative careers. We offer programs that are truly unique in a university setting. A great example is SCAD Art Sales, a full-service art consultancy that provides distinctive design and curatorial services to a global clientele. This program represents a special channel through which SCAD champions and promotes its talented students and alumni. We also have a professional presentation studio called SCADamp that prepares creatives to amplify their stories through verbal, visual, and interpersonal communication. Students gain hands-on experience learning how to present their work in gallery spaces and are set up to excel in the professional world of photography upon graduation. In the fall of 2023, the Graham Scott building opened with state-of-the-art classrooms for the SCAD photography program, creating a dedicated space for collaboration with a gallery and photo studios. While it can be challenging at times to convey a vision with intention, SCAD students bring everything they have to their work and are always ready to adapt.
Tyler Basa, “Skellig Bay”, 2022. Courtesy of Tyler Basa and SCAD.
