The photography of Sowela Technical Community College students will be displayed on the first floor of Lake Charles City Hall, 326 Pujo St., through September.

An opening reception for this exhibit will be hosted from 5 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 11.

The exhibit features 18 pieces shot by 10 Sowela students, said Lindsey Jainse, Sowela photography instructor and commercial marketing photographer. They follow the themes of “fine art” and “black and white,” which were explored in their introduction to photography or intermediate photography classes.

The highlighted photographs were previously displayed in the Sowela Spring Art Show. Earlier this year, the Digital Arts and Communication department held an open call for all of the photography students, she said. The submissions were scored by local professional photographers, and the “top picks” were included in the Spring Art Show.

Janise said that Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter reached out to Sowela to inquire about displaying the photographs after viewing the Spring Art Show in April. The college jumped at the opportunity.

“Sowela is always looking for ways to connect our students with the local community.”

The city began to utilize the first floor of City Hall as an art gallery in the spring. In a release, he said that the public’s reception to the initiative has been positive.

“We are thrilled to welcome our next exhibition and proud to display the photography of some incredibly talented Sowela students. We are especially excited to provide a new avenue of exposure to a broader audience for these students.”

Janise seconded Hunter, telling The American Press the exhibition will broaden horizons for Sowela’s photography students.

“This opportunity helps provide additional local exposure for our students, giving them a platform to showcase their exceptional skills and network with future patrons,” she said. “Exhibits like this one provide students with wonderful learning opportunities and a launching point to present their art to the public.”

Sowela Chancellor Neil Aspinwall said in a release that the talent in the Digital Arts and Communications program at Sowela is potent.

“The results attest not only to their talents but also to the talent and dedication of our instructor Lindsey Janies,”  he said. “As I always say, this is not your granddaddy’s old trade school anymore.”

Those interested in Sowela’s Photography classes and the Digital Arts and Communication program can visit www.sowela.edu/digital-arts or call 337.421.6550. Classes begin August 12.