Student photographers from across Tampa Bay were honored at the opening of the 3rd Annual Jacob Ari Kamis Photography Contest Exhibition, according to a May 7 announcement. The ceremony for the “Through Their Lens: A Journey of Self Exploration” exhibit took place on May 6 at Tampa International Airport and featured a panel with three professional photographers.
This year’s competition received 222 entries from 22 schools, with only 25 photographs selected for display. Thirteen of those works were created by students from Pinellas County Schools. Henry Peter from Pinellas County Center for the Arts at Gibbs High School earned first place, Michael Labaeu of East Lake High School won second place, and Brady Rich of Dunedin Highland Middle School was awarded third place. All participating students received prizes, trophies, and professionally printed canvas versions of their work.
The event drew significant attendance and support while emphasizing student achievement and the importance of photographic arts in the community. The contest and exhibition honor Jacob Ari Kamis’ memory and his passion for photography.
The exhibit is displayed on the airport’s second floor until July 31, allowing thousands of travelers to view both photographs and student artist statements. Afterward, it will be shown at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts (Aug. 4–Sept. 20) before moving to Hillsborough County Arts Council’s Frederick B. Karl County Center (Sept. 21–Nov. 16).
Pinellas County Schools operates as the official public school district for Pinellas County under its elected School Board, maintains an extensive network serving students throughout the county, operates one of Florida’s most diverse selections of magnet programs, runs a total of 144 schools ranking as ninth-largest in Florida, enriches community life by promoting academic achievement and innovation, and focuses on preparing students for college, careers and life,according to its official website.