Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Lee Smith.
Hi Christine, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After struggling for many years to find my path in life, in 2017, I decided to pursue fine art photography. For the 10 years or so prior, I had worked as a commercial photographer but felt increasingly burnt out. Something inside me told me it was time for me to learn how to tell the stories I was holding inside me. I had spent so long telling other people’s stories through my work; now it was time to focus on telling my own.
A few years later, in 2020, I finished my MFA degree and released my second fine art portrait series of work called “Portraits on Estrangement.” In that project, I photographed individuals who’ve experienced estrangement from their parents in adulthood using large-format film processes.
Fast forward a bit, and I released another new body of portrait work in May 2024 on womxn who do not have children. This project explores female autonomy and desire in fertility. It is a timely project, given the vast changes to women’s healthcare currently taking place.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have definitely been challenges along the way. One such challenge is finding galleries to exhibit my complete bodies of work. To meet this challenge, I am currently getting support from Shoebox Labs (https://shoeboxarts.com) at their promoting your art workshop. From this experience, I am learning to prepare and advocate for myself in the arts world to get my work in front of a wider audience.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in fine art portraiture. I often use analog technology in my work — such as large format films and silver gelatin darkroom printing processes.
I am known for — and most proud — that my work makes room for people whose voices are often unheard or silenced. At a recent exhibition, several people who saw my work came up to me unprompted and shared how, through my work, they felt like they found their community.
What also sets my work apart is my ability to be vulnerable through my work and to embrace the unknown through asking questions.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I play D&D regularly with my partner. It’s one of my nerd-based outlets!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.christineleesmith.com
- Instagram: @christineleesmithphoto
Image Credits
Christine Lee Smith
