Orthopedic Surgeon & Fine Art Photographer; Author of "Inner Harmony: Living in Balance"; Educator & Humanitarian
Jon Kolkin, M.D. Biography
Dr. Jon Kolkin is an orthopedic surgeon and fine art photographer whose dual careers in medicine and photography have informed one another throughout his life. Kolkin attended Emory University and Emory University School of Medicine, completing his residency in general surgery and orthopedic surgery, with a specialization in hand and forearm conditions. He practices orthopedic surgery in Raleigh, North Carolina, with nearly five decades of experience. Kolkin was introduced to photography as a child in his father's darkroom and later became a clarinetist who toured Europe with the National Youth Symphony. While completing his medical residency, he continued to pursue photography, taking courses at night.
Kolkin is recognized internationally for his work as a fine art photographer, physician, educator, humanitarian, and speaker. He is known for a minimalist photographic style that emphasizes clarity and often incorporates socially relevant themes. His photographic series, including "Tide Pool," "Seeking Wisdom," "Feathers," "Equilibrium," and "Dreamscape," reflect a commitment to art that encourages introspection and dialogue.
Kolkin's book, "Inner Harmony: Living in Balance," is a collection developed over seventeen visits to Asia, covering ten countries. The book features forewords by the Dalai Lama and the Queen Mother of Bhutan and has received a Gold Medal at the Tokyo International Foto Awards for Best Photography Book by a Professional in the People category, as well as a Silver Medal at the International Photography Awards for Best Photography Book by a Professional in the Documentary category. Kolkin's photography has been exhibited in more than 20 museums and galleries in the United States and internationally, and he has received 20 international photography awards.
The "Inner Harmony" series debuted internationally at the Dalai Lama's World Headquarters and was later exhibited at the IIC in Delhi and the SLU Museum of Art in the United States. Kolkin served as co-chair of the "Fostering Universal Ethics & Compassion Summit," which brought museum leaders from the United States to India for a private audience with the Dalai Lama. He also co-chaired the international traveling exhibition "Shades of Compassion" and collaborated on the documentary film "Man of Compassion: Stories of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama" in partnership with the Office of Tibet, Washington, D.C.
Kolkin is the only professional photographer from the Southeastern United States to serve on the faculty of both Santa Fe and Maine Media Workshops. He is a trained health coach and is recognized as a guest speaker and educator on topics related to wisdom, creativity, and achieving balance in life. Kolkin uses his art to facilitate discussions about living a balanced and enriching life, with presentations that highlight practical approaches to professional achievement and personal well-being. His perspective, shaped by experience in both the operating room and the darkroom, positions him as a voice on creativity, compassion, and the intersection of art and medicine.
Jon Kolkin, M.D. Speaking Topics
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Balancing Compassion for Patients with Compassion for Self
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Spiritual Growth Guided by Compassion and Wisdom
Jon Kolkin, M.D. Videos
Scientific and Buddhist Perspectives | Talk by Jon Kolkin, M.D.
Finding Joy: Scientific and Buddhist Perspectives Talk by Jon Kolkin M.D. October 5 2025 | 2:00 – 3:30 PM Fo Guang Shan Temple of
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What topics does Jon Kolkin, M.D. speak about?
Jon Kolkin, M.D. is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Art & Design, Emotional Intelligence, Fitness, Health & Wellness, Healthcare, Humanitarian, Medicine, Mental Health, Mindfulness, Motivational, Music, Non-Fiction Authors, Non-Profit, Overcoming Adversity, Personal Growth, Philanthropy, Photography, Professional Development, Psychology, Social Activism, Social Sciences, Spirituality, Stress Management, Work-Life Balance -
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Jon Kolkin, M.D. is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as Balancing Compassion for Patients with Compassion for Self, Spiritual Growth Guided by Compassion and Wisdom, Practical Strategies for Living a Balanced Life, Balancing Your Personal and Professional Life, Navigating Through Difficult Times and Finding Time for Photography and Other Passions. The estimated speaking fee range to book Jon Kolkin, M.D. for your event is available upon request. Jon Kolkin, M.D. generally travels from Raleigh, NC, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Daniel Farber Huang, Jeff Davidson, Michelle Gielan, Montel Williams and Dr. Darlene Mininni. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Jon Kolkin, M.D. for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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