On Dec. 15, Mineola High School photography students participated in an enriching field trip to the Hofstra University Museum of Art, reinforcing the district’s commitment to experiential learning and real-world connections beyond the classroom.

Learners explored Love Is the Message, an exhibition by acclaimed photographer and local artist Jamel Shabazz. Through his street photography spanning the 1980s to the present, students examined how visual storytelling can document history, celebrate culture and reflect the power of human connection. Shabazz’s work highlights themes of family, friendship, fashion, music and the influence of hip-hop, offering students meaningful insight into photography as both an artistic and social practice.

The visit directly supported Mineola’s art curriculum by encouraging learners to analyze composition, narrative and cultural context while developing critical thinking and visual literacy skills. They also gained a deeper understanding of how photography can foster empathy, understanding, and community awareness.

Following the museum visit, the Hofstra Art Department provided our learners with a comprehensive tour of its facilities, including the photography lab, darkroom, ceramics studio and 3D printing lab. This experience allowed them to see how the skills they are developing in the classroom translate to collegiate programs and future creative careers.

The exhibition, curated in partnership with “Team Love” and the Hofstra University Museum of Art, is enhanced by additional works on loan from the Art Bridges Foundation, further enriching the educational experience through exposure to diverse artistic voices and mediums.

Experiences such as this field trip reflect Mineola’s ongoing efforts to connect classroom instruction with authentic learning opportunities, strengthen community partnerships and expose students to postsecondary pathways in the arts. Through these hands-on experiences, Mineola continues to inspire creativity, critical thinking and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.