JESS LORD
I am not a photographer; I am an artist. My work transcends the boundaries of photography, embracing a wide range of media to express a singular, powerful message: queer liberation. Through each photograph, drawing, and painting, I create with intention, weaving hidden stories and underlying messages into my art. I seek to create a space where individuals feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to express their identities, just as they are.
I was born in Oakville, but I’ve lived all over Ontario. Growing up in an environment where self-expression was often stifled, I am deeply motivated to make art that fosters self-acceptance and pride. I want to offer a voice to those who lack a safe space to be themselves, advocating for visibility and freedom in a world that often feels unwelcoming. My art is a reflection of that struggle—an invitation for everyone to feel seen, heard, and liberated.
But art is not just about comfort. I also want to provoke thought, challenge perspectives, and evoke emotions—sometimes even discomfort or confusion. These feelings are essential, as they provoke reflection and self-examination, which are crucial for growth and change. I believe that questioning why we feel uncomfortable or appalled is the first step toward progress.
I am Jess. I am an advocate. I am an artist. And through my work, I aim to spark change, inspire self-love, and create a world where everyone can be unapologetically themselves.
Awards & Recognitions
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Fleming College - Haliburton School of Art & Design (September 2021 - December 2022)
Completed with the Drawing & Painting Certificate
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Niagara College, Welland Campus (September 2023 - April 2025)
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2024 Aperture. 1st Place for Commercial Product Photography.
2022 End of Year Exhibition. Fleming College - Haliburton School of Art and Design.
2021 Diagnostik (diagnostik.me), Worldwide virtual exhibition. White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.
2020 “Snap it!”, Group Photography Exhibition. White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.
2020 “2020 Vision”, Group Visual Arts Exhibition, White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.
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2021 Ontario Scholar Award. White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.
2020-2021 Top Marks Award. Grade 12 Digital Design (Yearbook), Grade 12 Visual Arts - Photography, Grade 12 College/Apprenticeship Mathematics, Grade 12 Landscape Architecture, Grade 12 Hairstyling & Aesthetics. White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.
2019-2020 Certificate of Achievement. Recognition of Excellence in Grade 11 Visual Arts - Photography, Grade 11 Leadership and Peer Support. White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.
2018-2021 Honours Society Award, White Oaks Secondary School, Oakville, ON.