Body of Light

A cherished teacher, Becky Young, empowered students to express themselves fully and openly. She dedicated her life to her students and artistic practice, creating daring and remarkable works that fostered healing through artmaking.

Becky retired from Penn in 2005, receiving the prestigious G. Holmes Perkins Award for Distinguished Teaching in the Undergraduate Programs in the School of Design. Upon retiring, she said, “When I started, I had my darkroom in a closet in the Furness building. We developed a program that started from nothing. It’s fascinating for me to see what happened. We had a chance to expand, building a state-of-the-art photography department. I feel I’m leaving it in good hands.” Retired from teaching, Becky remained an active artist, working in many mediums and a wide range of subjects. Her projects were unconventional, unique, and deeply personal.

Our May 16th conversation will be moderated by Gabriel Martinez, Senior Lecturer in Fine Arts, and feature Becky Young’s university colleagues and alums who studied with her.

Registration is encouraged but not required.