The art of photography is more than just capturing moments; it’s about seeing the world through a unique lens. This month, that vision will take center stage in two student-led exhibitions at the School of Communication gallery, where student artists will showcase their work. From vivid portraits to striking landscapes, each picture tells a story of curiosity, creativity and personal expression.
Beth Staub, assistant teaching professor of photography, said the two back-to-back exhibitions will showcase the work of students in her PHO306 and PHO307 classes, who have learned to work with digital black and white pictures and location portraits.
“The first exhibition will run until Nov. 14,” Staub said. “Students have spent the semester learning about the Zone System and how to create black and white digital photographs. They will be showcasing what they have learned. The second exhibition will start on Nov. 18 and will showcase lighting, composition and posing in both outdoor and indoor locations.”
Staub, who just recently exhibited some of her work at the faculty photography exhibition “Here, Together” in the School of Communication gallery, said students can learn important skills by navigating these types of events
“Students need to exhibit their work to learn how to navigate what photographs are their best, not their favorite,” she said. “They need to learn how to talk in front of viewers and how to market themselves. The public speaking part of this project is the most valuable as they learn how to present themselves professionally. They need the experience of seeing their work on display in real time instead of just online so they can interact with their fan base and receive all that goes with that.”
Marvin Sagisi, a senior majoring in photography whose work is being showcased at the PHO306 exhibition, said it is important for students to have these experiences because it exposes them to what real-world gallery shows look like while helping them learn from each other and become better photographers.
“We get the opportunity to present to the public the beautiful work that everyone has done throughout the semester,” Sagisi said. “It’s great to see everyone’s perspectives through black and white, as we perceive and see the world differently. It also helps us learn different skills and techniques.”
Sagisi said his work aims not only to tell a story through pictures, but also to showcase and find unique perspectives that are overlooked every day. He enjoys working with black and white digital photographs because he feels that process lets him capture emotion, textures, contrast and simplicity. “Taking color away from your scenes really allows you to slow down and study your scenes through this monochromatic world,” Sagisi said.
He is assisting in the darkroom and the photo lab at the School of Communication and aspires to become a professional photographer after he graduates.
“Student work shown in public places makes the student’s degree more real and helps them understand what it is to be an artist,” Staub said. “Some students have even sold their work, which is helping them understand the business part of photography. This type of exhibition helps them build confidence so they are more willing to enter more shows and contests or even open their own business.”
PHO 306 – Location Black And White (Digital) Photography will be open until Nov. 14, followed by PHO 307 – Location Portraiture, Nov. 18-Dec. 1 at the School of Communication Gallery, located on the second floor.
Mariana Laas | NAU Communications
(928) 523-5050 | mariana.laas@nau.edu