Hosted on April 18, 2025, Rowan’s Business Hall had a vibrant hub of artistic expression, hosting the opening of a print gallery. Situated on the second floor, the startup gallery unveiled an array of student-created prints. The event showcased still life prints to visual storytelling, bringing much to unpack, along with explore and appreciate. 

A’niyah Kenner, a senior and journalism major known for her passion for staging, shared her creative insights on the importance of staging and perspective on the power of photography. Kenner explained how she stages prints, whether she plans it or is sparked by spontaneous inspiration. 

“Photographers like me can paint a story through their lens,” said Kenner, emphasizing the narrative power of visual art. 

Matthew Millroy, a Radio, Television, and Film major, is a photographer who is a part of the prints. As he has a minor in photography, he focuses on finding the beauty and absurdities in everyday life that are often overlooked. Millory’s goal, like many photographers, is to inspire and have the audience connect. He gets inspiration from all of his surroundings. 

“I’m very big into photographing people, so I approach strangers and then make pictures of people that I am not familiar with. The camera to me is an opportunity to meet and interact with more people. I appreciate things that make you look at it like a metaphor and have a deeper meaning,” said Millroy. 

This gallery was more than just a showing. The attendees had the chance to engage directly with student photographers, discussing their artistic viewpoints, process, and behind-the-scenes of these images. Many prints were available to purchase and provide both recognition and support for the photographers. Alyssa Curley, junior student photographer and RTF major, shared her print process through the lens titled “Body Dysmorphia.”

She further dives into the meaning of her print, delving into the complexities of body image, self-perception, and the skewed way that we view ourselves. Curley explains how she wanted a dark take on body image and how her professor encouraged her to push herself so she could truly drive the point. 

“What truly inspires me to these pieces would be the concepts of photography and just appreciating art from within, instead of just point and shoot,” said Curley.

The exhibit allowed students to incorporate different passions and bring platforms to sensitive topics. Junior Halleigh King is currently an art major who shoots based on relationships and different experiences she has been through with other people. She captured this image of uncomfortableness, and it’s as if you don’t want to be there, but you have to stay and be there. 

King further brings out that she wanted this print to be confusing for the viewer and wanted the viewer to further question and decipher what was the meaning behind this complex print. 

“I wanted the man to reassure her, and I wanted the audience to wonder what kind of relationship they have. I like to shoot things that are relatable to others, bringing awareness of individuals’ past experiences,” said King. 

From vibrant color prints to striking black and white compositions, the startup gallery provided a platform for Rowan students to excel in their photography and artistic ability. Symbolism can be seen throughout the different prints of the gallery, from prints like Halleigh King to Alyssa Curley, many students show deeper meanings in their photography.

Further, providing visitors with the opportunity to engage directly with student photographers. Allowing students to discuss their creative processes, and being able to purchase works on display. The variety of the prints showed students’ talents, highlighting the diversity of the prints exhibited in the startup gallery. 

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