Through the Lens
SCAD photographers shine in Class of 2024
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has long been a beacon of creativity and innovation, nurturing some of the brightest talents in the art world. This year, SCAD's legacy takes another monumental step forward with the release of Class of 2024, a limited-edition photography anthology published in collaboration with Thames & Hudson.
“This unique project which began in a SCAD classroom and is now launched into the world through Thames & Hudson, publishers of some of the most significant and influential photography books, proves that photography and education have never been more active or important. The book, Class of 2024, reflects the breadth and depth of the SCAD photography program itself as it manifests the full spectrum of photographic communication in 2024 and for the future,” says Michael James O’Brien, chair of photography at SCAD.
The collection features a variety of genres, from portraits and landscapes to fashion commissions and personal projects, all captured through the lens of SCAD students and recent alumni. The photographs are accompanied by insightful essays from established writers, curators, and editors, offering a rich context that deepens the reader's appreciation of the images.
This stunning book showcases the work of 10 emerging photographers from SCAD, including five current students and five recent alumni, each bringing a unique perspective and a fresh voice to the art of photography.
“As Thames & Hudson marks its 75th anniversary, I am delighted to introduce Class of 2024—an outstanding collection of photographs presented by ten talented students and recent graduates from SCAD,” says Sophy Thompson, CEO and publisher of Thames & Hudson. “Throughout our storied history, Thames & Hudson has remained committed to championing the voices and visions of young and emerging artists in parallel with the publishing of leading writers and artists from around the world. It is in that spirit that we have collaborated with SCAD to publish this book.”
Among the contributors are several photographers from the South, whose work resonates with the cultural richness and complexity of the region. Kourtney Iman King from Decatur, Alabama, and Xavier Thompson from Fayetteville, Georgia, are just two of the talents whose work is highlighted in the book. Their contributions add a distinct Southern flavor to the collection, capturing the essence of life in the South through their lenses.
“My work doesn’t prescribe a narrative; I want people to feel, to find their own voice, not just listen,” shares King in the book. “When I present my work, I wield the power to choose what I show, and through these choices I can challenge preconceptions and offer perspectives that are often overlooked.”
“Landscape photography is a way for me to explore the human experience, to explore the mysteries of life and how the past, present and future co-exist and connect,” writes Thompson.
SCAD’s photography program, under the leadership of chair Michael James O’Brien, is known for pushing boundaries and encouraging students to explore the full spectrum of photographic communication. The program equips students with the skills to master both historic and modern techniques, ensuring they are well-prepared to make their mark on the world of photography. This book is a testament to that training, showcasing not just the technical prowess of SCAD photographers, but their ability to tell compelling stories through their work.
Learn more about Class of 2024 and the talented photographers behind it here.
To learn more about SCAD’s photography degree program, click here.