Student photography exhibit debuts at TPA honoring local teen’s creative legacy
Travelers passing through TPA will have the chance to experience the creativity and vision of young artists from across the Tampa Bay region.
Beginning May 6, Tampa International Airport will host “Through Their Lens: A Journey of Self-Exploration,” a public photography exhibit showcasing the winners of the third annual Student Photography Contest held in memory of Jacob Ari Kamis, a Hillel Academy graduate whose passion for photography continues to inspire others.
The exhibition, organized by Hillel Academy, the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (FMoPA), and Tampa International Airport, features 25 winning photographs by students in grades six through twelve, along with a selection of Jacob’s own work. The contest drew a record 221 submissions from 27 schools throughout Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pinellas counties.
The display on Tampa International Airport's Ticketing Level will run from May 6 through July 31, offering TPA’s many visitors a chance to view the exceptional student photography in a setting that celebrates both creativity and community. The exhibit will later move to the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (August 4–September 20) and then to the Hillsborough County Arts Council’s Frederick B. Karl County Center (September 21–November 16).
A private reception will take place at the airport on May 6 to unveil the winning entries before the exhibit opens to the public.
Jacob Kamis discovered his love for photography while in middle school at Hillel Academy and went on to become the official photographer for the Aston Martin Owners Club of Florida. Jacob’s many interests included dancing, volleyball, baking, traveling, and flying planes, as he was training for his private pilot's license. His family and former teachers created the contest to honor his memory and encourage other young artists to express themselves through photography.
“Artistic activities like photography play a vital role in fostering mental health and self-esteem,” said Jacob’s parents, Katherine Alano and Jeffrey Kamis. “We’re grateful to our partners for providing this platform where students can share their stories through photography in Jacob’s memory.”
The contest’s judging panel included FOX 13 feature reporter Charley Belcher, FMoPA Executive Curator Robin O’Dell, and Florida-based artist and educator Debra Campbell. Sponsors for this year’s event include the DeBartolo Family Foundation, Florida Blue, Proper House Group and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
