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Photo exhibit provides exposure for young nature photographers (21 photos)

Focus on Nature’s 4th Annual Garden Party draws a record crowd and raises funds for nature photography program.

Guelph’s young nature photographers had a chance to exhibit their work during a garden party fundraiser at Kingsmill House Sunday.

“I think this is our biggest garden party ever,” said Simon Bell, executive director of Focus on Nature. “At least 270 people registered and I’ve bumped into a lot of people that didn’t register so, that’s great.”

Former Guelph MP Frank Valeriote opened his home for the event and a steady stream of visitors joined guided tours of the historic mansion on Woodycrest Drive.

Guests were invited to stroll the grounds and view nature photographs captured by Guelph students from eight to 16 years of age.

Food and refreshments were served and there were games for the children.

Bell told guests that the concept for the Focus on Nature program was developed by social worker Shirley Hunt and photographer Trina Koster.

“They recognized that there was a problem with technology separating children from the natural world,” said Bell. “Rather than taking technology out of their hands, they sought to empower them with technology and make it exciting to be nature explorers.”

More than 60 volunteers organize workshops and camps for the young shutterbugs in places such as the Arboretum in Guelph and RIM Park in Waterloo.

Bell welcomed new Focus on Nature staff member Natalie Verschueren and announced that the program is expanding to other communities.

“This is the first year we have expanded beyond Wellington County and Natalie is managing the Waterloo Region,” he said. “We are reaching about 3,000 children a year now. I imagine in two or three years we’ll double that again because we are already applying to do it in Halton Region and then perhaps Hamilton Wentworth and just keep it growing.”

The quality of the photographs on display was evidence of the program’s success.

“Photography kind of levels the playing field,” said Bell. “If you’ve got a good eye, it doesn’t matter what age you are, you can take a good picture. We don’t teach photography. We teach how to observe and find the beauty around you.”

The photographs will be on display again during Art on the Street June 24 and during an exhibit in September at the new 10 Carden Street location.

Bell took the opportunity to thank Valeriote as well as the growing number of corporate sponsors and private donors. He reminded guests to buy raffle tickets for the silent auction and other prizes.

“I just want to encourage you to spend your money,” he said. “It’s the only reason we are here really. It is to make you feel happy and make you pull out your wallet and donate to Focus on Nature so, please be generous today.”

To register for the summer camps, view the photographs and learn more about Focus on Nature visit: www.focusonnature.ca


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Troy Bridgeman

About the Author: Troy Bridgeman

Troy Bridgeman is a multi-media journalist that has lived and worked in the Guelph community his whole life. He has covered news and events in the city for more than two decades.
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