Maureen Ruddy Burkhart is a multidisciplinary photographic artist whose practice explores the intersection of environmental observation and ancient craftsmanship. With a career spanning over several decades, her work investigates the subtle indicators of our changing world, moving between the documentation of nature’s flora and fauna and more experimental, materiality-focused inquiries. Burkhart is particularly drawn to the fleeting and the ethereal, using the photographic medium to capture elements that are often overlooked or transient, thereby elevating them into subjects of profound contemplation.

In her series Aerosol Suspensions, Burkhart focuses on the omnipresent yet elusive phenomena of clouds, fog, smoke, and vapor. She views these atmospheric suspensions as vital environmental indicators—sometimes serving as celebrations of natural beauty, and at other times as warnings of impending storms or chemical presence. To honor the fragile nature of these subjects, Burkhart employs a meticulous hybrid process: printing on vellum and gilding the images with 24k gold leaf. This delicate handiwork pays homage to the ephemeral quality of the atmosphere while utilizing precious materials to grant these "suspensions" a permanent, monumental significance.

Burkhart’s distinguished career is rooted in a BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute and is marked by extensive international recognition. Her work is held in prestigious collections, including the Asia Society Museum in NYC and the International Museum of Dance in San Francisco. Recent accolades include being featured at Paris Photo for the "State of the World" exhibition and receiving the Julia Margaret Cameron Award for Women Photographers. A regular exhibitor at international biennials like Fotonostrum in Barcelona, Burkhart continues to spark global conversations about the environment through her mastery of alternative photographic processes.

Education & Training

1976

BFA Photography, San Francisco Art Institute, USA

1980

BS Arts & Media, Grand Valley State University, USA

Exhibitions (selection)

2025

Threshold, Museum of Fine Arts, USA

Colorado Photographic Arts Center, Denver, USA

2024

State of the World, Paris Photo, France

8th Biennale Fotonostrum, Spain

International Juried Exhibition, Center for Photographic Art, USA

2022

Evanescence, Julia Margaret Cameron Award, International

2020

Portrait of Humanity (Space), British Journal of Photography, International