Show Two 2014, the second in a series of three exhibitions, showcases work of students from the Department of Photography and Imaging within the Tisch School of the Arts. Set up in the Gulf + Western Gallery, on the first floor, and the 8th Floor Gallery at 721 Broadway, the show displays thesis exhibitions from 17 graduating seniors.

Sonia Davis, a Tisch administrative secretary and photographer, said the exhibition is a culmination of the students’ work throughout college.

“The main purpose [of this series] is to showcase a body of work by each student in mini solo exhibitions rather than a cohesive group show that might be arranged thematically or otherwise,” Davis said.

The art pieces are powerful. The artists explore various themes in their work, from animal abuse to family relationships, and delve into such concepts using an exemplary manipulation of the visual. For example, Tisch senior John Kurtz investigated the importance of family photographs by weaving together separate photos of family members. Kurtz’s pieces were more physical interpretations than digital manipulations, and his work utilizes color, shape and space to portray a feeling of disconnection and reconnection among family members he often does not know.

CAS freshman Alana Chen said she thought the artwork was unique in the way it conveyed its primary message.

“I like how the photographs are actually cut up and put together instead of one flat image,” Chen said. “It’s really different — you have to choose what to focus on.”

A standout piece in the exhibit belongs to Tisch senior Daryl Oh. Oh’s work, “Anonymous Parties,” explores the hidden side of New York nightlife, using rejected nightlife photos and finding connections in seemingly random interactions.

“It was my first time doing an exhibit like this,” Oh said. “It was a lot of pressure to make sure that everyone’s needs were met, especially because it was our thesis show.”

Oh said the collaborative environment made the show even more enjoyable.

“Putting the show together was a collective responsibility and experience, and I think that we all did a great job facilitating different responsibilities,” Oh said. “In the end, the most rewarding thing was to celebrate the night of our opening, knowing all of the hard work that went in and seeing that finally coming to fruition.”

Other highlights of the exhibit include Tisch senior’s Rachel Williams’ examination of identity and race through the lens of the African-American woman in college, Tisch senior Rachelle Klapheke’s feeling of disconnect with an unfamiliar community and Tisch senior Liam Cotter’s street portraits, which focus on solitude in a populated environment.

The exhibit is located at 721 Broadway and is free for NYU students. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Saturdays.

A version of this article appeared in the Monday, March 31 print edition. Kari Sonde is a staff writer. Email her at [email protected].