Scenes of Northampton

The Advanced Studio Art and Photography classes’ visit to Northampton, Massachusetts, earlier this fall has developed into a remarkable on-campus exhibit. Over the past few weeks student work has been on display, showcasing unique perspectives and creative interpretations of Northampton's vibrant streets.

Among the featured works is Scenes of Northampton, a striking photographic series by August Shapiro ’26. As a filmmaker and a new film photographer, August approaches his photography with a cinematic mindset, transforming everyday moments into intentional, story-driven frames that spark the imagination. 

“When I first embarked on my street photography shoot with Dev, I wasn’t sure what I would capture,” August explains in his artist statement. “After some time spent observing and following Dev, I began to visualize scenes and frames as though I were shooting a film. With that mindset, I started taking photos through my camera, framing each shot with intention.” 

His collection is marked by striking contrasts—vivid color prints that rely on composition to tell stories, and black-and-white images where the interplay of light and shadow drives the narrative. From a quiet alley scene featuring a chess table with coffee and oranges to a dramatic monochromatic portrait, August’s work invites viewers to see Northampton as a film set, each image a carefully crafted moment.

The exhibit also featured an array of artwork from other talented Suffield Academy photography students, highlighting the diversity of creative expression born from this trip. From advanced art students’ plein-air drawings to experimental film photography, the art produced from this trip brings Northampton’s charm and energy to life.

This trip will continue to be an exciting milestone for future photography and studio artists.