Photography students displayed their artwork in Feldman-Horn Gallery from Jan. 10-31. The showcase featured works by 30 students who examined identity, memory and artistic experimentation through diverse photographic techniques. Organized by Upper School Visual Arts teacher Brannon Cook, the exhibition displayed pieces spanning multiple units, including portraiture, long exposures, cyanotypes and various artist emulations.
Photography II student Branden Wong ’26 exhibited multiple photographs in the show, including a long exposure piece that transformed a fidget spinner from when he was younger into a luminous arc of light resembling a smile. Wong said he was excited to have his artwork portrayed alongside other impressive ones in the gallery.
“Having my work displayed in the gallery was awesome,” Wong said. “A big part of that is knowing that my work is among so many other amazing works of art and people who have endless creativity and innovation.”
Anju Higashi ’26 displayed a cyanotype piece — a cameraless artwork that involves laying pieces of paper in chemicals to expose the UV lighting. Higashi said her work was dedicated to the memory of her late grandmother.
“Creating this piece allowed me to honor our memories together, and the artistic process itself helped me process my emotions,” Higashi said. “It feels affirming as an artist to watch my ideas materialize in a real exhibition.”
Wong said the exhibition helped broaden his perspective on artistic expression.
“Being a part of this exhibition has helped me see how universal photography is,” Wong said. “Each photo can have so many different meanings and intentions.”
Higashi said the exhibition deepened her connection to the school’s artistic community.
“A lot of thought and effort went into the photo exhibition by the students, teachers and staff, and I feel really fortunate to be part of such a creative and supportive community,” Higashi said.
Alexander Hudlin ’26 said his work explored the intersection of rap culture and Black artistry through multiple pieces.
“One piece is a diptych featuring Playboi Carti alongside the legendary artist Prince, symbolizing Black rock stars who challenged the norms of sexuality and redefined masculinity,” Hudlin said.
Maya Stillwell ’26 said she combined both technical homages and personal reflection in her works.
“It’s cool to have work displayed in the gallery because it allows for the photos to be seen larger and in print rather than only digitally, which is how we see most photos nowadays,” Stillwell said.
Hudlin said showcasing his work in the exhibition contributed to his artistic growth and development.
“It’s impactful to have my art featured in a gallery at such a young age, even if it’s just at my school,” Hudlin said. “It’s definitely inspiring to know that hundreds of people have stopped by to see my work.”
Stillwell said the exhibition helped her honeher artistic voice.
“This exhibition influenced my artistic journey — to see my photos side by side with all the other students ’ takes on the same projects. It allows me to start to see an emergence of my style,” Stillwell said.
Cook said the exhibition aims to inspire artists and foster connection within the school community.
“I hope the show empowers student artists to continue making beautiful and complex images,” Cook said. “I hope seeing those images makes students feel inspired to create their own art.”
