Mariah Karson is a photographer and artist who strives to capture her clients needs with honesty and clarity to provide memorable images that tell compelling stories. She is based in São Jorge, Azores and works regularly in Chicago.
Mariah Karson's images have been published nationally and internationally with the Chicago Reader, The Guardian UK, L' Obs, Chicago Magazine, NEA Today, and more. She has exhibited at the Chicago Cultural Center, the Mint Museum Uptown in Charlotte, NC, Filter Photo Festival, Firecat Projects, Chicago Design Museum, and others.


PROJECT FEATURE
AMERICAN LEGION
The American Legion is a non-partisan, non-profit veterans organization, with a mission that includes supporting veterans, combating autocracy, and promoting peace and goodwill. AMERICAN LEGION documents four American Legion posts. Between 2014 and 2016, Karson photographed and interviewed Legion Family members and the impact veterans and posts have on small communities. The project has been compiled into a hardcover book and gallery exhibition.
Made with help from the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) Individual Artist Grant.
RECENT EVENTS
The Arts Club of Chicago
89th Members Exhibition
On display was a portrait of James Reynolds Jr., a WWII veteran and Montford Point Marine Association Chapter 2 member. At the opening reception, Mr. Reynold's presence elevated the experience of viewers as he was enthusiastic to meet people and answer questions about who he is and what the Montford Point Marine Association does for the veteran community.
201 E Ontario, January 18 - February 22, 2020




RECENT ACCOLADES
Best of ASMP 2020 : Third Place
"A New Battleground" Chicago Veterans of the armed forces' segregated past fight to keep their legacy alive. Story and images by Mariah Karson.
Chicago Reader, April 4th 2019
RECENT EVENTS
PhotoLab
4x5: The Stories Behind the Frames.
Four women photographers share the stories behind five of their favorite images – with Lucy Hewitt, Mariah Karson, Glenda Lissette, and Zakkiyyah Najeebah.
Apple Store Michigan Avenue, March 11th 2019

