Mark Ballogg '81 Captures Chicago’s Creative Spaces in Book “Making Space”

PhotoMark Ballogg and his book “Making Space.” Photo by Eileen T. Meslar
Photography alum Mark Ballogg unveils the hidden world of Chicago's artist studios in his new book, "Making Space," offering a glimpse into the creative environments of 119 local artists.

Columbia College Chicago Photography alum Mark Ballogg is bringing the hidden world of Chicago artist studios to light with his new book, “Making Space.” Featuring 94 studio photographs and 80 artist quotes, the book offers an intimate glimpse into the creative environments of 119 Chicago-based artists. 

Ballogg recently shared insights about the project during an interview with NBC 5 on February 12, where he discussed how his love for photography and architecture began at Columbia. Reflecting on his journey, Ballogg described the moment he first stepped into a darkroom and saw an image emerge on paper as the spark that ignited his career. 

The idea for “Making Space” originated in 2017 after a visit to the Lincoln Park studio of renowned sculptor Richard Hunt. Over the next five years, Ballogg photographed 166 artist studios across Chicago, capturing approximately 5,000 images and conducting in-depth interviews with each artist. 

The book explores how physical spaces reflect the identities and practices of the artists who work in them. “I learned more about myself and the kind of commitment it takes to be an artist,” Ballogg says during the interview. Each studio visit documented the visual richness of these spaces but also included recorded conversations exploring the artists' philosophies and creative processes. 

Signed copies of “Making Space” are available for purchase at ShopColumbia. The hardcover book (188 pages, 9.5" x 13") includes a pull-out Artist Index and captures a variety of disciplines and perspectives. 

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