I graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Madison in May, 2004 with degrees in anthropology and art, and an emphasis in African studies. I began thinking seriously about photography while at Madison, though at the time I was mostly focusing on the technical aspects of the darkroom and exploring alternative printing processes. During the summer of 2005, thinking I might still be an archaeologist of sorts, I went to Italy to get some field experience and study art preservation and conservation. Though I found out that archaeology wasn’t really for me (I was having more fun taking pictures of people digging than actually digging myself), I did discover just how much I like getting lost in new places and bringing back pictures and stories. Photography, in a way, became my reason to get out and explore. Currently I am enrolled at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, working on an MA in Visual and Critical Studies. I continue to write as well, and my work is currently featured at Prolonged Insult and UR Chicago Magazine.

Images may be used and distributed for non-commercial purposes with proper attribution. Most images are available for commercial use as well - please contact me for details. If you like any of the photos please download them, use them and share them, just keep my information on them so people know where to look for more.

Past front page postings can be found at http://benmadeska.blogspot.com/

I will be updating frequently, so check back often for new photos.