Filter Photo was founded by artists to meet the needs of emerging and mid-career photo-based artists working in the Midwest, with a particular focus on Chicago as a hub of artistic practice. Filter Photo aims to be a thought-leader in the field of photography—demonstrating the ever-evolving importance of the medium in contemporary art practice and discourse. Our organization aspires to support sustainable career pathways into the art world, while presenting exhibitions and educational programming that represents a strong creative vision. We work towards these goals through two primary programmatic outputs: our gallery and project space, Filter Space; and our annual Filter Photo Festival.

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Since 2009, Filter Photo has been the driving force behind the annual Filter Photo Festival. The Festival hosts portfolio reviews, exhibitions, workshops, lectures, and other career-building initiatives to support photo-based artists nationwide. The portfolio review program has been instrumental in connecting artists with curators, galleries, editors, and arts professionals who can provide artistic feedback, professional guidance, and career opportunities. 

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In 2015, Filter Photo opened Filter Space, a gallery and project space located in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood. Through this space, Filter hosts a year-round program of exhibitions, critique groups, workshops, and an emerging arts administration fellowship, all aimed at fostering support for photo-based artists in Chicago and beyond.