Explore Chicago’s Creative Spaces with Photographer Mark Ballogg

The Orland Park Public Library invites local residents to a special Meet the Artist event on Friday, May 2, celebrating the work of renowned Chicago-based photographer Mark Ballogg and his exhibit Making Space. The artist will be available to discuss his photography from 7 to 8 p.m. on the library’s second floor.

Each month, the library showcases the work of a different artist in its second-floor gallery space, and for the month of May, the featured exhibit is Making Space, a compelling photographic exploration of Chicago artists’ studios.

About the Exhibit

Making Space is the result of a six-year journey during which Ballogg photographed 166 artist studios throughout Chicago. The project culminated in the publication of a hardbound book in 2023, showcasing a single photograph from 94 studios representing 113 artists, alongside 76 excerpts from recorded conversations.

The images and narratives in Making Space reveal the deep connections between artists and their creative environments. Ballogg captures the nuances of artistic practice through wide-angle, midrange, and close-up views, paired with rich, reflective interviews. The exhibit highlights not only the visual aesthetics of artists' workspaces but also the emotions, philosophies, and personal stories that unfold within them.

About the Artist

With over 30 years of experience, Mark Ballogg is internationally recognized for his architectural photography. His work spans continents, and his talent for revealing beauty in ordinary and extraordinary structures alike has earned him accolades worldwide. His commercial work through Ballogg Photography serves clients in architecture, real estate, interior design, and advertising across cities such as Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.

Ballogg’s personal projects, including his previous book, Père Lachaise, underscore his ability to merge emotional depth with technical precision. Making Space stands as a profound visual and narrative document of Chicago’s diverse artistic community and Ballogg’s own evolution as an artist.

Visit the Exhibit

Mark Ballogg’s Making Space exhibit will be on display throughout May on the second floor of the Orland Park Public Library. Attendees of the May 2 event will have the opportunity to speak with the artist, view a selection of his favorite photographs, and learn more about the creative spaces that shape Chicago’s vibrant art scene.

This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required.

For more information, please contact the library at (708) 428-5110 or visit orlandparklibrary.org.

About the Orland Park Public Library:

The Orland Park Public Library is committed to enriching the community through access to information, education, and engaging programs. Located at 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., the library offers a wide range of services and events for patrons of all ages. The library is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.