Concept to Publication 2026 Workshop

Concept to Publication is an inspiring, 7-month program designed to explore experimental publishing and guide you in creating innovative publications like photobooks, zines, and other printed works. Perfect for image-makers who want to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling, this program offers a blend of hands-on experimentation and structured mentorship from two experienced tutors and collaboration with workshop peers.

This year, the program will be taught by Odette Elix England, a distinguished artist, writer, and 2022 Guggenheim Foundation Fellow. With a career that spans multiple disciplines, Odette brings a wealth of experience in both artistic creation and scholarly research. Her work explores the intersections of photography, writing, and visual culture, often blending these mediums to create dynamic publications. A recipient of numerous prestigious grants and awards, including from the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation and Puffin Foundation, Odette has published six books, and is currently working on her second novella, Once I Was A Photograph.

Odette’s background as both a practicing artist and academic (she holds an MFA in Photography and a Ph.D.) makes her uniquely positioned to offer a rich, thoughtful approach to publishing. As a teacher at the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University, she has honed her ability to guide students through innovative and process-driven projects, providing both creative insight and technical expertise.

Concept to Publication will function as a collaborative studio, with regular group sessions from May to November. Participants will explore experimental forms of publishing, delve into the history and techniques of photobooks and zines, and learn how to curate and sequence images into compelling printed works. The program emphasises creative freedom while providing a structured framework to help you develop your ideas into dynamic, process-driven creations. Odette will offer one-on-one guidance throughout the course, complemented by the shared insights of your peers.

This program is ideal for artists and photographers of all levels who are eager to explore innovative publishing practices. Whether you already have a body of work or plan to create one during the course, you’ll leave with fresh skills, a deeper understanding of experimental publishing, and a network of creative connections. Throughout the course, photo access staff will be available for any additional assistance needed.