Jenn Marquis’s “kodak,” a term photographers use to describe their first roll of film, at the SFCC Photo Gallery focuses on her event photography. With the option of a second career, through SFCC, Marquis made a decision to enroll.
Building 32, also known as sƛ̓x̣etkʷ, is home to creative arts, and many art students feel comfortable there.
“I find it as inviting as my own,” said an SFCC art student Jonah.
Her father had experience in photographing weddings; Marquis was acquainted with cameras by both her father and stepfather. Making the family encouragement complete, her husband supported her career.
“My husband presented me with a camera,”said Marquis.
A subscription to National Geographic for Kids introduced her to numerous pictures where her imagination progressed with the pages.
Marquis is drawn to Flamenco dancing, its bright attire dresses like birds’ feathers like she viewed in National Geographic years ago.
“My daughter danced Flamenco, and she is represented in my work,” said Marquis.
Marquis is also the photographer of the dancers’ portraits. Reactions from the dance company of the commissioned black and white portrayals, have residency for the company.
Over a phone interview, she said that she found inspiration in artist Imogene Cunningham’s work. Cunnigham’s Hands of Aloe is an influence on Marquis’ work.
“While a painter can repaint, a photographer must live with the decision made at time of exposure,” photographer Edward Weston wrote in a book that features Cunningham.
An internship with Spokane based artist Dean Davis taught her how to stretch her own canvas.
“I use the process for the physical interaction with the art,” said Marquis.
Collin Masteller manages the equipment for students and was a student himself at SFCC.
“Marquis” was getting her own interns,” said Masteller. “It is nice to see the impact SFCC students have with the community.”
Art fairs are Marquis’ agenda for either participating or observing.
“I advocate for the arts and public libraries,” said Marquis. “I joined a few Spokane business associations which have proven beneficial to business. I have corporate photography on my resume.”
Marquis has multiple methods she uses to get the best outcome for her art.
“I use AI sparingly for removal of unwanted substances,”said Marquis.
Marquis’ work can permanently be seen at the Flamenco Dance Studio in Spokane and will be displayed significantly at her studio on 3038 E Trent.
