Launched in celebration of the Photographic Resource Center’s 50th anniversary in 2026, the mentorship program was created to provide emerging photographers with meaningful opportunities for artistic development, professional guidance, and community connection.
The inaugural program brought together four emerging photographers selected through an open call with four established artists. Over six months, fellows met monthly with their mentors to receive feedback, develop their photographic practices, and explore new creative directions. The program culminated in a group exhibition showcasing the fellows’ work.
Inaugural Mentors: Jess T. Dugan, Jillian Guyette, Tommy Kha, and Rashod Taylor.
Inaugural Fellows: alina balseiro, Jaypix Belmer, Libby O’Neill, and Nick Ortoleva.
Following the success of its inaugural year, the PRC received a generous $25,000 gift to continue and grow the program, which has since been renamed the Michael Philip Manheim Mentorship Program.
Michael was a photographer and PRC member in the 1970s and 1980s whose documentary work included photographing the impact of noise pollution on East Boston communities for the EPA’s historic DOCUMERICA project. This meaningful gift, made by his family in his memory, honors his legacy while investing in future generations of photographers.
Recognizing the continued need for accessible mentorship opportunities in photography, the PRC is committed to fostering meaningful relationships between emerging and established artists. We are deeply grateful to Michael’s family for making it possible to continue this important work and expand opportunities for photographers to learn, connect, and grow.
The next open call will launch in early 2027.
