The Warkworth Maple Syrup Festival’s Art Show was a real find with a range of excellent artworks from sculptures to ceramics as well as photos and paintings. The entries were not only top notch but often very witty as well. However, taking pictures of the photos did not work as the glass covering of the framed pictures were picked up as obtrusive reflections. However, the top prize winner at the show, Mary Weilandt, graciously sent some copies of her photos which are shown here.
In this black and white floral image, Mary’s background in optical work certainly comes through. The lighting is broad, even, and leaves no harsh glare points. Instead the rich details of the bloom is just a touching fragrance away.
This portrait of cows in the field piqued my sense of humor – I had to be careful not to laugh out loud at the opening night. It is almost as if one were meeting some laconic Northumberland farmers. The fog in the background adds to the sense of drama. Now cows can be curious but some will say they are not the brightest light bulbs in the field. Given the somewhat menacing glare of the bull on the right, there is just a bit of sly reversal in this farm portrait.
I know this countryside and Fall setting well and Mary has done a a splendid job getting the eye to wander up and around along the road with white aspen and birch acting as conductors along with their yellow leaves. There are hints of wetness and chill and the dark greenery suggest a bit of foreboding for the coming of Winter to the woods. One can imagine settlers seeing the same scene but with a two track road 200 years ago. The exquisite lighting [one can imagine some dodging and burning] makes this a splendid image.
In sum, Mary has treated viewers to a touch of local fair with good styling, excellent photo finishing and a dash of humor that has been well rewarded with top ranking at the Spirit of the Hills Art Show.