CINCINNATI— Cincinnati organizations in need of photography and video services will soon have support with the launch of ArtWorks’ Photography and Video Studio. A variety of services will be available for community partners to contract with ArtWorks, starting May 1, 2024. ArtWorks, the creative nonprofit organization most famous for its murals and public art across the Greater Cincinnati region, is committed to employing young people and artists and with this endeavor, expanding to meet community needs.
Leading the studio is Cameron Lee, an expert in cinematography, creative direction, and film photography. He honed his skills in Los Angeles before relocating to Cincinnati in 2020. Lee is a strong team leader who has contributed to successful wardrobe styling campaigns for high-profile clients. He was a previous host of the Midwest Prana Flea Market and worked as a Prop Maker on the major motion film “Alto Knights,” formerly known as “Wise Guys.”
The new ArtWorks Photography and Videography Studio will provide year-long mentorship, on-the-job training, and direct client experience all while paying a living wage to five emerging photo and video professionals, ages 18–24. These Studio Artists will learn skills including client communication, presentation, design, project and time management, budgeting, and collaboration, allowing for a smooth transition into future careers.
This studio is gearing up to begin offering its services, which include portrait photography, event photography and videography, as well as video and photo services for products and services. Other lens-based business campaign assets for social media (i.e., reels) and styling services are also available. Nonprofit, cultural, and community partner projects will be prioritized. Learn more or book photo and video services on ArtWorks’ website. The studio will also support ArtWorks’ needs to document murals and other art projects.
“I’m excited to be part of ArtWorks as it grows its creative horizons with the launch of our new Photography and Video Studio,” said Lee. “As someone deeply passionate about visual storytelling, I believe this initiative will not only empower local artists but also elevate Cincinnati’s creative landscape. I can’t wait to see the incredible work that we will achieve in our first year and beyond.”
ArtWorks has provided artists ages 14–21 with summer and after-school jobs since 1996. In 2022 it expanded its reach with year-round Mural Studio and Civic Art Studio Programs, employing young adult artists and an artist-in-residence to work on civic and equity projects. In addition, ArtWorks provides a Gallery Fellowship Program and hosts exhibitions for young adult artists ages 16–24, providing mentorship and allowing them to sell their work in a gallery.
“ArtWorks is now so much more than a summer job program in the arts. Over the last few years, we have grown our model to employ artists year-round. ArtWorks is the place for the next generation of artists to grow and succeed in our region, and we are so excited to now hire emerging artists in digital arts,” said Colleen Houston, CEO & Creative Director for ArtWorks. “For community partners who are looking for cool, cutting edge, innovative work and visual storytelling, we invite you to support ArtWorks mission and this incredible new studio of emerging creatives. ArtWorks is dedicated to serving Cincinnati’s creative community and connecting them with opportunities to leave an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.”
In late 2024 ArtWorks’ studios, galleries, and administrative staff will be moving into a consolidated new home: 2429 Gilbert Ave in Walnut Hills. Construction is currently underway on this historic building. The Photo and Video Studio will have its permanent home at this location. Plans are also in place to introduce a graphic design studio in 2025, further increasing ArtWorks’ array of creative services to employ more creatives.
Who We Are
Since 1996, ArtWorks has collaborated with community organizations and residents, businesses, governments, foundations, and nonprofits to build creative works of art that support the Greater Cincinnati region’s global reputation as an arts destination. ArtWorks has employed and trained over 3,500 professional artists and 4,000 youth, ages 14–24. We invest in our creative economy by creating jobs that support local talent, pairing professional artists to inspire and mentor diverse teams of youth, and helping them build 21st-century career-readiness skills. Over the past 27 years, this collaborative approach has created a citywide gallery with more than 14,000 public and private art projects, including more than 300 permanent outdoor murals.
