Shane Lavalette
Born January 1, 1987 in Burlington, Vermont, United States • Next birthday: January 1, 2026
January 1, 1987
Burlington, Vermont, United States0
0 likesJanuary 1, 2026
61 days out11
Total visitsWhat does it take to revolutionize photography? For Shane Lavalette, it began with an unwavering belief in curiosity and visual storytelling. Born in 1987 in Burlington, Vermont, he navigated the early uncertainties of building a meaningful practice in contemporary art while earning his BFA at Tufts University and the affiliated School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (graduated 2009). Facing the challenge of being a young photographer without a major gallery behind him, he responded by undertaking bold commissions, including a 2010 trip through the American South for the High Museum of Art's "Picturing the South" series, which led to his major work One Sun, One Shadow (2016). Rooted in this philosophy, Lavalette then accepted the post of associate-director (2011) and later director (2013) of Light Work in Syracuse, New York-there, he responded to institutional skepticism by evolving the artist-in-residence programme and publication initiatives to engage new voices. When he faced the obstacle of having to translate his vision across continents, he responded with the commission from Fotostiftung Schweiz to traverse Switzerland and create Still (Noon) (2018). His work has since been exhibited internationally and published in four acclaimed monographs, establishing him as a leading voice in American photography. In retrospect, Shane Lavalette's career was a masterclass in curiosity and visual storytelling, forever altering our understanding of photography.
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Career & Achievements
- One Sun, One Shadow (2016)
- Still (Noon) (2018)
- LOST, Syracuse (2019)
- New Monuments (2019)
- Will with Banjo (2011, photographic work)
Personal Details
Latest News
Verse Talks
Shane Lavalette explores NFTs and curation on Verse Talks podcast
On June 27, 2025, photographer and gallery founder Shane Lavalette appeared on the Verse Talks podcast where he discussed his evolution from artist to art-advisor and gallerist. He detailed his approach to NFTs, the importance of provenance, and how curation itself has become a mode of collecting. The episode highlights Lavalette's expanding role in art markets beyond his photographic practice.
Inman Gallery
Shane Lavalette launches Houston solo show 'One Sun, One Shadow'
Beginning April 22 2025, Inman Gallery in Houston welcomed Lavalette's solo exhibition "One Sun, One Shadow", marking the first time this body of work was displayed in Houston. The exhibition revisits his earlier commissioned series on the American South and underscores Lavalette's continued engagement with place, music and visual narrative.
Facebook post via Shane Lavalette
High Museum to feature Shane Lavalette in major photography survey
Starting September 15 2023, the High Museum of Art in Atlanta included Lavalette in its exhibition "A Long Arc: Photography and the American South" - a significant institutional recognition of his work exploring Southern landscapes and cultural history. The inclusion cemented Lavalette's status in major museum-level surveys of contemporary photography.
FAQ
Is Shane Lavalette only known for One Sun, One Shadow?
No. While One Sun, One Shadow is his breakthrough work, Shane Lavalette has produced several notable series and photobooks, including Still (Noon), LOST, Syracuse, and New Monuments. Each explores different cultural and geographic narratives. His portfolio extends beyond single projects, reflecting a long-term commitment to contemporary documentary storytelling.
Did Shane Lavalette start his career in a major city like New York?
No, he was born and raised in Burlington, Vermont, and began his photographic journey there. His career developed through academic study in Boston and later through independent projects. His rural background deeply influenced his sensitivity to landscape and place.
What makes Shane Lavalette's photography unique?
Lavalette's photography stands out for its lyrical engagement with place and sound. His visual language bridges the poetic and documentary traditions, often exploring connections between music, memory, and environment. This approach positions him as a thoughtful innovator in American fine art photography.
Did Shane Lavalette found Light Work?
No, he did not found Light Work. He joined the organization in 2011 and became its director in 2013. Under his leadership, Light Work expanded its support for emerging artists and diversified its publishing program, strengthening its role as a hub for creative photographic exchange.
Does Shane Lavalette only photograph in the United States?
While his early projects focused on American subjects, Lavalette has also worked internationally. His project Still (Noon) was created in Switzerland as part of a commission by Fotostiftung Schweiz. This global perspective broadened his visual dialogue and reinforced his sensitivity to cultural context.
Is Shane Lavalette primarily a commercial photographer?
No. Lavalette is primarily a fine art photographer and visual artist. His work is conceptual and narrative-driven rather than commercial, often published in monographs or exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide. He focuses on artistic integrity and thematic depth over commercial appeal.
What institutions have exhibited Shane Lavalette's work?
His photographs have been exhibited internationally in venues such as the High Museum of Art, Musée de l'Elysée, and Fotostiftung Schweiz. These exhibitions highlight his role in redefining the scope of contemporary photography through nuanced explorations of place and identity.
Does Shane Lavalette teach photography?
Yes, alongside his artistic practice, Lavalette has lectured and taught workshops on photography, visual storytelling, and publishing. His teaching emphasizes developing personal vision and understanding the ethical dimensions of image-making.
Has Shane Lavalette received any awards or grants?
Yes. Lavalette's work has received recognition through grants, exhibitions, and international commissions. His leadership at Light Work and his publications have been featured in major photographic reviews, cementing his reputation as an influential figure in visual arts.
Is Shane Lavalette involved in photobook publishing?
Yes. Beyond creating his own monographs, Lavalette has played an editorial and curatorial role in promoting photobook culture through Light Work's Contact Sheet publication. He champions the photobook as a vital medium for artistic expression and dissemination.
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