Riley Mormon, ‘26, currently has a featured art display in the JC Cowart Student Center, affectionately known as “Stu”, showcasing the vibrancy of life beyond Lake Forest Academy’s campus. Her photography collage, which recently earned her a class award, captures the spirit of the local community with a black and white theme that highlights everyday moments in downtown Lake Forest.
Mormon explained that the piece began as an assignment in her Advanced Studio Art class, where she is the only student focusing on photography. For the project, she explored the east side of Lake Forest and its bustling downtown, capturing authentic scenes of people going about their daily routines. Several photos were also taken at the Lake Forest train station, documenting the phytoplankton of commuters traveling to and from Chicago.
Although she doesn’t plan to pursue photography professionally, Mormon emphasized her lifelong love for the art form. “It will always be a passion of mine,” she said, “and I’ll never stop capturing beautiful moments.” Her favorite memory behind the camera comes from a snapshot she took during a boys’ varsity baseball game last year—a candid shot of pitcher Landon Fraser ’25 and catcher Santiago Delgado ‘25 celebrating a big win. The next day, she discovered the image set as their iPhone background. “That moment warmed my heart and reminded me why I love photography,” she shared. Mormon’s interest in photography started at a young age, inspired by family members who enjoyed it as a shared hobby. She continues that tradition today, using her camera to tell stories that connect people and places.
Make sure to stop by Stu to see Riley Mormon’s award-winning photography on display, a stunning reminder of the everyday beauty found right here in Lake Forest.