Reading

The Journal

Essays, interviews, and notes from Lumen's faculty, staff, and community.

Isabel Cardoso · April 12, 2026

Lumen's curriculum is built around a phrase we use often. Here's what it actually means — and why it shapes every class we offer.

Owen McGill · April 3, 2026

Six artists, four weeks, two darkrooms, and one ambitious group critique. Notes from this season's residency.

Marco Iturra · March 22, 2026

Our annual Columbia Gorge field intensive returns June 13–14 & 20. Here's the full itinerary and what to pack.

Claudine Rose · March 8, 2026

A short essay on what it takes to maintain a community darkroom — and why we think it's worth it.

Tomohiro Isa · February 19, 2026

Lumen faculty Naomi Okafor on long-form documentary, the Pacific Northwest, and what she's looking for in a portfolio.

Owen McGill · February 5, 2026

Lumen's annual Members Show returns this October. Submissions open now through August 1.

Lily Shen · January 18, 2026

Lumen awards $48,000 in tuition assistance every year. Applications are open now through May 15.

Petra Jansen · December 21, 2025

Petra Jansen reflects on the first year of Lumen's quarterly Platinum-Palladium Open Lab.