Students in Fairfield and Bridgeport have spent the past month bridging divides through art.

Earlier this year, Fairfield Ludlowe AP art and photography teacher Michele Hermsen was awarded a $1,000 grant from the Connecticut Department of Education.

Hermsen says the goal of the Portrait of Giving grant was to teach her students to use their artistic talent to serve the greater good.

In October, 18 Fairfield students were paired with a student from the Adam J. Lewis Academy in Bridgeport to take their portraits.

Hermsen says without the project, many of the students would not be able to afford photos of themselves.

On Wednesday, the student photographers delivered and unveiled their portraits to their student models.

Hermsen says the project was designed to teach her students about more than just photography.

"It's really important to teach young people to follow their passion and always use their talent and gifts to serve others. That will not only fulfill yourself as a giver, but it will also make the receiver a very happy person and make a big impact on them as well, she says.