Self-Guided Biennial Experiences
Posted on July 28, 2026
As part of the 2026 Biennial, FotoFocus highlights venues during Spotlight Weekends and through supplemental self-guided checklists. Whether you’re looking to dive into historical exhibitions, explore specific neighborhoods, or focus on particular themes like diverse perspectives, the FotoFocus Biennial has something for everyone.
We understand that the Biennial and all associated events can appear overwhelming. With 75 exhibitions at 64 venues, there is a lot to keep track of. In addition to highlighting venues through three Spotlight Weekends, the FotoFocus team has created a number of supplemental self-guided checklists to help you navigate the 2026 Biennial.
These itineraries are designed to offer a range of self-guided tours, giving you the freedom to explore the Biennial at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to dive into historical exhibitions, explore specific neighborhoods, or focus on particular themes like diverse perspectives, the FotoFocus Biennial has something for everyone. These self-guided experiences are perfect for getting off the beaten path, discovering hidden gems, and immersing yourself in the full breadth of the Biennial—think of them as customizable guides to inspire a more personal and meaningful connection to the artwork and the ideas behind it. Want to curate an experience that is uniquely yours? Use our Do-It-Yourself blank checklist to Create Your Own Biennial Adventure.
Self-Guided Experience cards are available to download below (exhibitions are linked in PDF versions) or you can pick up a physical copy, while supplies last, at FotoFocus Center.
Do-It-Yourself
*When following any of these suggested checklists, be sure to confirm open hours for each venue before finalizing your plans.
Self-Guided Checklists by Theme
History in Focus
Diverse Perspectives
Unique Spaces
Alternative Processes
Left: Ball & Thomas Studio, Frederick Douglass, 1867. Carte de visite, 4 × 2½ inches. Courtesy of Cincinnati Museum Center; Middle: Katria Foster, Waiting Room, 2024. Archival pigment print, 25 × 16 inches. Courtesy of the artist; Right: Daniel Ransohoff, Views, c. 1950s. Photograph reprinted on PVC exhibit board, 10 × 8 inches. Courtesy of the Cincinnati Museum Center
Self-Guided Checklists by Location
On the Connector Route
Cincinnati Metro Bus 19
Day Trip
Left: Corson Hirschfeld, Petroglyphs in the Surf, Ka Lae Hawai’i, c. 1980s. Hand-colored gelatin silver print, 14 × 11 inches. Courtesy of Tassie Hirschfeld; Middle: Accra Shepp, Three Black men, who request anonymity for fear of the police, 2012. Inkjet print, 40 × 30 inches. Courtesy of the artist; Right: Tina Gutierrez, Olivia, 2023. Digital photograph on metal, 24 × 30 inches. Courtesy of the artist
Additional Self-Guided Checklists
Featured Exhibitions
Final Friday, October 30
Date Night
Left: Widline Cadet, An Echo of Gratitude, 2023. Inkjet print, 20 × 16 inches. Courtesy of the artist and Nazarian / Curcio. © Widline Cadet; Middle: Miro Švolík, Back, 1986. Pigment print, 8 × 12 inches. Courtesy of the artist; Right: Jano Rečo, Untitled, from The Seniors Home, 1996. Silver gelatin print, 9¼ × 6½ inches. Courtesy of the artist