It’s been a busy month for creative arts at Oak Knoll. While dozens of students danced, sang, and acted their way through the Upper School musical “Shrek,” in late February, nine photography students had their work on exhibit at the Hostetter Gallery’s Twenty-eighth Annual Student Photography Exhibition. Two students, Jane Finney ’24 and Lauren McPhail ’25, received judges’ awards for the exhibit as selected by an independent juror. 

The exhibit features nearly two hundred photographs and represents the best work of students from 10 private and public high schools in the region. Submissions include both digital and traditional film-based printing. Oak Knoll students whose work is on display include:

• Elise Wojie ’24
• Jane Finney ’24
• Violet Hillabrant ’25
• Ava Racich ’24
• Alexandra Nicholson ’25
• Lauren McPhail ’25
• Ellie McCabe ’25
• AvaClaire Lago ’25
• Elizabeth Rogers ’25

“The photo I submitted captures weathered logs with a small spider’s web caught in between,” said Finney. “I took the at the end of the 2023 summer season. It’s rewarding to see my work appreciated and celebrated by others. It inspires me to continue honing my craft and to continue to explore the beauty in everyday scenes.”

“I was visiting my brother at college during a family weekend when I took the photo,” added McPhail. I was at the Wond’ry at Vanderbilt University, and when I got to the stairs, I noticed a unique light structure. I started taking pictures from various angles; however, I was especially intrigued by the photo I took at the basement level, looking up to the ceiling. I am incredibly grateful and glad to have won this award.”

All of the submitted photographs are stunning and best viewed in person. They will be on exhibit through March 6 at the gallery at The Pingry School, 131 Martinsville Road in Basking Ridge. The gallery is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. when school is in session. Certificate recipients were honored at a special reception at the gallery on the night of Friday, February 23. The gallery is also available online at https://artspaces.kunstmatrix.com/node/12782715.

Congratulations to all our students who stretch their creative talents at Oak Knoll daily. Visit our website for more information on Fine and Performing Arts at Oak Knoll and a digital gallery of student work.