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Love Is the Message
Photography by Jamel Shabazz
September 2 – December 16, 2025
Emily Lowe Gallery
Jamel Shabazz’s street photography from the 1980s through the 21st century celebrates the beauty of family and friendships, shared community, and popular culture, including fashion trends and music — particularly the powerful influence of hip-hop. The overwhelming joy found in human connections is captured in original black-and-white and color photography, creating an undeniable experience that lifts the spirit and fosters empathy and understanding. This exhibition celebrates his 50th anniversary of capturing decades of enduring images that inspire and empower. Artwork, cameras, and ephemera are drawn from his personal archive.
Love Is the Message is curated in partnership with “Team Love” and includes artist Jamel Shabazz; Robert “Dupreme” Eatman; Dr. Bilal Polson, principal of Northern Parkway Elementary School in Uniondale, NY; Erik Sumner, an art teacher from Northern Parkway Elementary School in Uniondale, NY; and the Hofstra University Museum of Art.
Additionally, the Art Bridges Foundation is lending and funding the transportation of two works of art that complement the aesthetic of Love Is the Message . Native Son (Circus) (2006) by Terry Adkins and Bronzeville at Night (1949) by Archibald John Motley Jr. Both works amplify the themes and visual language present in Jamel Shabazz’s photography.
The events below noted with an asterisk (*) are part of the Shabazz Public Engagement Project, a series of public programs organized by the Hofstra University Museum of Art. The project is supported by Long Island Grants for the Arts through funds provided by the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by the Huntington Arts Council.
The Museum’s fall exhibition and related programming enhance Hofstra’s academic offerings for students and expand both community partnerships and collaborative experiences. These engagement initiatives support the goals of the Hofstra 100 strategic plan.
VIEW INTERACTIVE PDF OF EXHIBITION CATALOG
The Hofstra University Museum of Art’s programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature.
Press Release: “Love Is the Message ”: Hofstra Celebrates 50 Years of Jamel Shabazz’s Photography
HUMA in the News: HUMA Receives Huntington Arts Council Community Impact Micro Grant
HUMA in the News: Love Is the Message: A Conversation with the Artist
HUMA in the News: HUMA in the News: News 12 Long Island Interview with Jamel Shabazz
HUMA in the News: HUMA in the News: ABC 7 Interview with Jamel Shabazz
Please click through this album to view photos from related programs.
Jamel Shabazz (American, born 1960)
A Time of Innocence Series. East Flatbush. 1980
C-Print
16 x 20 inches
Courtesy of the artist
Related Programs
PUBLIC PROGRAM
Love Is the Message Photography by Jamel Shabazz.
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
6-8 p.m.
Emily Lowe Gallery, Behind
Emily Lowe Hall, South Campus
Join us in celebrating the exhibition Love Is the Message Photography by Jamel Shabazz.
Light refreshments will be served.
Admission is free.
RSVP to 516-463-5672
PUBLIC PROGRAM
Exhibition Tour with the Director
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
6-7:30 p.m.
Emily Lowe Gallery, Behind
Emily Lowe Hall, South Campus
Exhibition Curator and Museum Director Sasha Giordano will discuss the community collaboration that shaped this exhibition, offering insight into the artist’s creative process and the enduring legacy of love reflected in the work.
Admission is free.
RSVP to 516-463-5672
PUBLIC PROGRAM
Love Is the Message: A Conversation with Jamel Shabazz*
Thursday, October 23, 2025
10 a.m.-noon
Plaza Room Middle/West 127, Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center, North Campus
This event has reached capacity and is now CLOSED.
In celebration of his 50th anniversary as a photographer, renowned artist Jamel Shabazz will share insights into his personal influences, creative methodology, and artistic journey... [Read More]
Admission is free.
RSVP to 516-463-5672
PUBLIC PROGRAM
Feel the Love
Experience the Photography by Jamel Shabazz with a Heart Meditation
Thursday, November 6, 2025
6-7:30 p.m.
Emily Lowe Gallery, Behind
Emily Lowe Hall, South Campus
This event has reached capacity and is now CLOSED.
Denise Peterson, of Denise Peterson Yoga, will bring mindfulness and mediation techniques to the art experience and deepen the viewer’s aesthetic journey and foster a state of peace. Participants will be guided through... [Read More]
This event is co-sponsored by the Hofstra Cultural Center
Seating is capped at 30 guests.
Admission is free.
RSVP to 516-463-5672
Gallery Location and Hours
Emily Lowe Gallery
Behind Emily Lowe Hall, South Campus
Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.
The Museum is closed on major holidays, during Hofstra University recesses, and during exhibition installations.