Jessica Kalmar's evocative images connect the viewer to otherwise forgotten details in a seemingly shared world. She is primarily an analog photographer with a customized darkroom in her home. Much of her photographic work incorporates other elements such as paint or embroidery, and she is more partial to the less sophisticated types of cameras and lenses; when all combined help to articulate a message of wavering familiarity.
Jessica was born in Oregon and grew up in Ohio. She served four years in the United States Navy in the Pacific Fleet on two now decommissioned auxiliary ships. After her honorable discharge, Jessica earned a BS from Kent State University, a Professional Certificate in photography from Maine Media Workshops + College in Maine, and a MFA from Ohio University. She is also a certified Master Gardener through the PSU extension program. Jessica won the Jefferson Award in 2011 for her volunteer work at a Pittsburgh based day treatment center for adults with developmental disabilities and behavioral health challenges. She has taught photography courses in higher education for 15 years, and has been a guest speaker and guest instructor in southern Ohio and the Pittsburgh area.