Jon McJunkin
b. 1993 in San Antonio, TX
Lives and works in Chicago, IL. 

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Education
The School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio, 2016


Statement
I am a contemporary photographer based in Chicago, IL, and my work explores themes of queer identity, societal expectations, and the concept of "failure." Using both digital and analog techniques, I create visual dialogues that intertwine my personal experiences with broader cultural narratives.

Growing up in the conservative American South, I faced an environment that deeply shaped my approach to identity and my artistic vision. This upbringing instilled in me a heightened awareness of the struggles and triumphs associated with navigating queerness in a world that often feels unwelcoming. My project Good Boy serves as a direct response to conventional definitions of success and failure, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys toward self-acceptance and the ongoing process of self-discovery.

The contrast between my Southern roots and my adult experiences in the Midwest also plays a crucial role in shaping my perspective on heritage and identity. My family’s history—particularly their connections to the FBI—adds layers of complexity to my work, highlighting dual themes of authority and vulnerability, safety and fear. These elements prompt me to examine the complex relationships between personal identity and societal structures, encouraging audiences to question how power and history intersect with selfhood.

In my artistic practice, I intentionally embrace imperfections—such as dust, scratches, and light leaks—as part of my imagery. These "flaws" serve as metaphors for the fragility of life and identity, pushing viewers to reconsider the conventional aesthetics of photography. Works like Surface (2022) exemplify this approach, using perceived imperfections to symbolize resilience and uncover beauty in the moments often overlooked by society.

Through my lens, I capture the nuanced dynamics of visibility and invisibility, urging audiences to engage with the complexities of identity. My work underscores the importance of embracing one's true self, despite societal pressures and expectations.

Ultimately, my art invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and identities. It is a reminder that authenticity is essential—not just in art, but in everyday life—illuminating the raw beauty found in our imperfections and the diverse narratives that shape who we are.


CV
Current/Upcoming
Delicate Proximities, December 2024, Port Ewen Post Office Gallery, Port Ewen, NY

Previous
Within This Expanse, 2022, Port Ewen Post Office Gallery, Port Ewen, NY
Bachelor of Fine Arts Show, 2016, The Sullivan Galleries, Chicago, IL
60 Second Film Festival, 2013, Richmond, VA
VIDEO! VIDEO! Film Festival, 2013, Richmond, VA