Wilderness Photography Foundation

Tomorrow at the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center

Jill and Bobby will be performing at the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center Gallery this Saturday, Sept. 21st from 4-6pm for the Wilderness Photography Foundation Reception. Come see the amazing photographs, meet the photographers and enjoy the music. All are welcome to attend.
https://www.facebook.com/events/26233096696336020

This Saturday and everyone is invited.

RCAC hosting reception for touring nature exhibition on Saturday - Polk Today Nature’s true beauty captured in snapshots is on display through the end of October, but those who want to gather and celebrate the accomplishments of photographers have a chance to do so this Saturday evening. A reception is being held on Saturday, September 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. and live music wil...

No big deal however, I thought I would share my interview by 'Shout-Out-Atlanta' digital magazine that was conducted this summer and has just been published online.

Meet Mike Ramy – SHOUTOUT ATLANTA Local Stories Meet Mike Ramy September 18, 2024September 14, 2024 Leave a reply We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Ramy and we’ve shared our conversation below. Hi Mike, how do you think about risk? Risk-taking and seizing opportunities are essentially the same, and to me, the greates...

The Wilderness Photography Foundation is excited to present the remarkable array of Nature Photographers contributing to the 'Nature's Generosity' Traveling Exhibition 2023 - 2024. For the complete Gallery schedule and Contributor list visit: www.WPFus.org/projects

We are delighted to include photographer Linda Jackson from Cu***ng, Georgia in the exhibition.

“It all started with a trip to Yellowstone National Park with a point and shoot camera. I loved snapping photos of the magnificent scenery and documenting our big stuff, big fun trip to America’s first national park. I was thrilled with some of the photos but many, many others wound up in the trash bin.

After that trip, I felt the urge to learn about photography, so I switched to a big girl camera with more control over the images I created. I took courses at the University of North Georgia, earning a Master Certificate in Professional Photography in 2020.

I give back to the photography community through participation in the North Georgia Photography Club and the Southeastern Photographic Society (SPS), serving on the Board of SPS as the Exhibition Chair in 2022 and 2023.

My goal is to create images reflecting the beauty of our natural world while enjoying the outdoors and traveling.”

Linda is tied for the most works sold so far during the Nature’s Generosity Tour and has two amazing new works in the final exhibition at the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center now through October 31st.

The Artist Reception Party is next Saturday September 21st, and everyone is invited. Admission is free with food, drinks, live music, awards and special surprises - more info at www.WPFus.org

The dedicated staff and volunteers at the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center have been busy hanging the WPF Nature's Generosity Exhibition in preparation for tomorrow's start and the Opening Reception Party on September 21st from 4-6 pm. Make your plans to attend and see this unique exhibition on the final stop of the 2-year, 9 gallery tour.

Thanks to everyone at Gallery CERO for all your great ideas, hard work and creative vision - it was an honor to share the time with you during this summer season.

Just one more week to see the WPF Exhibition at the fabulous Gallery CERO in Longwood Florida. The next stop will be at the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center starting September 5th.
A big Thank-You to Nina, Lexi and everyone at Gallery CERO for being such a wonderful host and for this post.

The American Red Wolf is in critical need of our support to survive. The last remaining wild population is found in eastern North Carolina, specifically in the Albemarle Peninsula. Efforts to protect and recover this species include habitat improvement projects, reintroduction programs, and public awareness campaigns.

If you are interested in helping, you can support organizations involved in these efforts, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the North Carolina Wildlife Federation. Additionally, you can contribute to the following posted by WPF contributor Jimmy Cash who has been a champion of the Red Wolf for many years raising awareness toward the Red Wolf situation. Every bit of awareness and support can make a significant difference for the survival of these beautiful creatures.

Just 2 more weeks to see this dual event. Gallery One has a National Mixed Media Juried Exhibition and Gallery Two has my Solo Exhibition titled 'An Intimate Look at Nature' with 65 of my works. The last day is Saturday August 17th. It is worth stopping by if you are in the Athens Georgia area, this is a beautiful gallery.
Additional info at - https://www.mikieproductions.com/exhibitions-awards-page-2

You can make noise or make a difference; Fireworks serve no purpose and are a waste of your money, it is time to rethink how we share our time with nature.

Reposting…

For the next 4 days GWN, wildlife rehabbers, & vets will be flooded with calls about animals hit by cars, birds flying into buildings, babies abandoned in the nest because mom fled out of panic and can't find her way back, and social media pages will be flooded with "Lost Pet" posts. We have had 8 fawns hit by cars since last weekend ...what will happen when these animals are running for their lives into oncoming traffic? 😔

Please consider celebrating in other ways. Laser shows, parades, picnics, sparklers, or literally anything except shooting off fireworks in every cul-de-sac across the state. Help organize a "clean up day" the morning after an event in your neighborhood so wildlife isn't poisoned by ingesting the debris/trash left behind. Let's spread the word and educate people about the damage and pain fireworks cause to our native wildlife, family pets, and farm animals. We can make a difference.

Leading into the holiday, our hotline has already been flooded with messages. If you find injured or orphaned wildlife, please text us at 404-954-0093 including your name, address, photo of the animal and details of the situation. Please patiently await a response and be prepared to transport to a nearby rehabber, as we will not have enough transporters available for the volume of calls we are receiving. Do not give the animal any food, water, or milk of any kind. Keep it in a dark quiet area away from pets and people and we will get back with you as soon as possible. We will be responding to texts until midnight on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Remember, we are volunteers. Be kind. 🇺🇸

Note: Any negative comments on this post will be removed along with the person who makes them. We are here to save lives.

The Nature’s Generosity Traveling Exhibition, a unique event presented by the Wilderness Photography Foundation to increase awareness of the intrinsic value of wilderness and wildlife, encourage action to preserve and protect wild spaces.
The exhibition features over ninety outstanding landscape, nature, and wildlife images captured by 47 top nature photographers from the Southeast and a select group of nationally recognized contributors from across the United States.

The People’s Choice Awards are conducted at each exhibition and the top voted works are announced during the opening reception of the following exhibition.
Here are the top twelve decided by the 517 votes cast at the Goodyear Cottage Gallery during the May 1st to May 31st, 2024 exhibition hosted by the Jekyll Island Arts Association:

# 1 - ‘Dueling Mustangs’ / Elissa Windsor / 81 points
# 2 - ‘On the Rise’ / Tricia Raffensperger / 76 points
# 3 - ‘Wolf in the Woods’ / Bob Maynard / 54 points
# 4 - ‘Fledge with Dad’ / Patrick O’Healy / 51 points
# 5 - ‘Cat House’ / Mike Ramy / 44 Points
# 6 - ‘Humpback Close Encounter’ / Jeff Whittingham / 43 points
# 7 - ‘Happy To See Mom’ / Jenn Cardinell / 40 points
# 8 - ‘Got Lunch’ / Shirley Robinson / 41 points
# 9 - ‘Wakulla Morning’ / Bill Chambers / 38 points
# 10 - ‘Raven Point’ / Mike Ramy / 34 points
# 11 - ‘Spoonbill and Friends’ / Mike Rodock /33 Points
# 12 - ‘Pretty Peony’ / Linda Coatsworth / 31 points

The JIAA https://jekyllartists.com on Jekyll Island Georgia created an enjoyable and creative experience hosting our exhibition in the historic Goodyear Cottage Gallery. The Wilderness Photography Foundation expresses gratitude to everyone involved. Special thanks go to Caryl Rice, Karen Grogan, Steven Hartman, Barbara Poloncic, Debbie Evans and the entire JIAA team for their hospitality and contributions to this event.

For more information about the WPF, the People's Choice Awards, the complete 9-gallery tour schedule or to purchase the WPF Tour Book Collector's Edition, you can visit the Wilderness Photography Foundation’s website: www.WPFus.org
and https://www.WPFus.org/peoples-choice to visit the Artist's websites.

If you are in the Orlando Florida area this summer be sure to include a stop on Wekiva Island, a riverside oasis dedicated to sustainability, education, art and family fun. Home to Gallery CERO featuring the Wilderness Photography Foundation's Touring Exhibition through August 25th.
Additional information at:
https://gallerycero.com
https://wekivaisland.com
https://www.wildernessphotographyfoundation.org
The WPF is proud to partner with the fine folks at Wekiva Island for the 2024 summer season. Be sure and watch this excellent video - https://wekivaisland.com/flowingforward to learn more about their mission.

Wilderness Photography Foundation Using the visual power and art of photography to help inspire the preservation of today’s wilderness for future generations

Here is a very informative article published today in the Flagpole Magazine from Athens and the University of Georgia plus surrounding areas -

Winterville Cultural Center Gallery: Grand Opening Debuts New Art Space in Historic Building - Flagpole The Winterville Cultural Center, previously occupied by Winterville High School until 1956, has served as a community hub through art classes, exhibitions and events since opening its doors in 2016. After extensive renovations to its second floor, the center will debut a new art gallery this weekend...

The Nature’s Generosity Traveling Exhibition, a unique event presented by the Wilderness Photography Foundation to increase awareness of the intrinsic value of wilderness and wildlife, encouraging action to preserve and protect wild spaces.
The exhibition features over ninety outstanding landscape, nature, and wildlife images captured by 47 top nature photographers from the Southeast and a select group of nationally recognized contributors from across the United States.

The People’s Choice Awards are conducted at each exhibition and the top voted works are announced during the opening reception of the following exhibition.

Here are the top twelve decided by the 553 votes cast at the Association for Visual Arts Gallery (AVA) during the March 1st to April 17, 2024 exhibition:

1) On the Rise / Tricia Raffensperger / 83 points
2) Happy To See Mom / Jenn Cardinell / 75 points
3) Wolf in the Woods / Bob Maynard / 68 points
4) The Great Gallery / Bob Maynard / 67 points
5) Tomotley Oaks / Jenny Burdette / 47 Points
6) Dueling Mustangs / Elissa Windsor / 45 points
7 - 8 Tie) Shaman / Spears McAllister / 41 points
7 - 8 Tie) Humpback Close Encounter / Jeff Whittingham / 41 points
9) Golden Gathering / Keith Bauer / 36 points
10) Jolie’s Mushroom / Angie Fike Smith / 34 points
11) Moon / Michael Rogers /33 Points
12) Golden Tail Eel / Janerio Morgan / 31 points

The AVA Gallery https://www.avarts.org in Chattanooga Tennessee created an enjoyable and creative experience hosting this exhibition, and the Wilderness Photography Foundation expresses gratitude to everyone involved. Special thanks go to Tim Goldsmith, Jen Lewis and the entire AVA team for their hospitality and contributions to this event.

For more information about the WPF, the People's Choice Awards, the complete 9-gallery tour schedule or to purchase the WPF Tour Book Collector's Edition, you can visit the Wilderness Photography Foundation’s website: www.WPFus.org

It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of Jenn Cardinell's peaceful passing after a brief battle with cancer. Fortunately, her period of pain and suffering was short, and throughout the time of her illness, her unwavering optimism served as an inspiration. Having had the privilege to know and work alongside Jenn for many years was a true pleasure. She generously gave her time, expertise, and passion to every endeavor. Her remarkable talent, ever-positive outlook, warm friendship, and her infectious smile will be deeply missed by everyone who had the joy of knowing and working with the 'Foxy Lady'.
A memorial celebration of Jennifer’s life and legacy will be held in Cartersville, Georgia on Sunday, June 9 at 2pm. Please visit https://www.eventcreate.com/e/jenncardinell for additional information and to RSVP.

I am deeply honored to have been invited by Judy Hammond, the Gallery Director of Winterville Cultural Center Gallery, to be the Exhibiting Artist for the Gallery's Inaugural Opening in the summer of 2024.

The Winterville Cultural Center Gallery is located on the second floor of the Winterville Cultural Center building. This historic building served as Winterville High School until 1956. In 2016, the lower level was transformed into The Community Center, providing art classes, club gatherings, and event space. The idea of converting the second floor into an art gallery has been in the works since 2017. Following the acquisition of various grants and donations, renovations commenced in 2022.

The gallery's design and completion have been significant efforts by Judy, the Cultural Center team, the Winterville Mayor, and city officials, all working together to turn this vision into a reality. The Winterville Cultural Center Gallery is set to be a creative and welcoming space for the community to enjoy the exceptional exhibitions planned for Winterville and its neighboring areas.

My Solo Exhibition will take place in Gallery 2 and the adjacent foyer, while Gallery 1 and the connecting hallway will feature 'New Beginnings,' a juried art exhibition showcasing paintings and sculptures. Additionally, there will be an exhibition titled 'Pen, Pencil, Paper and Ink' on the lower level.

More info at:
https://www.wintervilleccgallery.com
https://www.mikieproductions.com/exhibitions-awards-page-2

Here is an excellent article to help better understand what the Okefenokee Swamp is facing with the proposed mining of Trail Ridge. We need everyone's help to stop this proposal.

Okefenokee mine would be an environmental disaster - SaportaReport Read Okefenokee mine would be an environmental disaster by Melinda Sylvester for SaportaReport here.

The Nature’s Generosity Traveling Exhibition, a unique and remarkable event presented by the Wilderness Photography Foundation to increase awareness of the intrinsic value of wilderness and wildlife, encouraging action to preserve and protect wild spaces. Let’s dive into some details:

The exhibition features over ninety outstanding landscape, nature, and wildlife images captured by 47 top nature photographers from the Southeast and a select group of nationally recognized contributors from across the United States.
The People’s Choice Awards are conducted at each exhibition and the top voted works are announced during the opening reception of the following exhibition.

Here are the top nine decided by the 305 votes cast at the Sautee Nacoochee Center Gallery during the January 12th - March 17th, 2024 exhibition:
1) ‘Fledge with Dad’ / Patrick O'Healy / 44 points
2) ‘Wolf in the Woods’ / Bob Maynard / 43 points
3) ‘Dueling Mustangs’ / Elissa Windsor / 38 points
4) ‘Happy To See Mom’ / Jenn Cardinell / 35 points
5) ‘Cat House’ / Mike Ramy / 28 Points
6) ‘Landing Party / Mike Ramy / 21Points
Three-way tie for 7th, 8th, and 9th places:
‘Yellowstone Coyote’ / Linda Jackson / 19 points
‘Wakulla Morning’ / Bill Chambers / 19 points
‘Golden Tail Eel’ / Janerio Morgan / 19 points

The Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center Gallery https://www.snca.org/snc/home.php outside of Helen Georgia hosted this exhibition, and the Wilderness Photography Foundation expresses gratitude to everyone involved. Special thanks go to Jim Thomas, Mel Whitehead, Jennie Inglis and the SNCA team for their hospitality and contributions to this event. Additionally, Jan Thomas, Jenn Cardinell and Linda Coatsworth, deserve recognition for hosting the opening reception and further contributing to the success of this event.

For more information about the WPF, the People's Choice Awards, the complete 10-gallery tour schedule or to purchase the WPF Tour Book Collector's Edition, you can visit the Wilderness Photography Foundation’s website: www.WPFus.org

If you are in the Golden Isles of Georgia area during the month of May plan a visit to Jekyll Island and the amazing Goodyear Cottage Gallery to enjoy this must-see exhibition by the Wilderness Photography Foundation before it moves to Gallery CERO, a unique art gallery space located north of Orlando, Florida, overlooking the Wekiva River.
More information at www.WPFus.org/projects

Wilderness Photography Foundation Using the visual power and art of photography to help inspire the preservation of today’s wilderness for future generations

Take action for the Altamaha!

The Rayonier Advanced Materials Jesup Mill has polluted the Altamaha River for 70 years, dumping "black liquor" industrial wastewater that turns the river dark and foul.

Altamaha Riverkeeper needs you to speak out and insist that the State fully upholds the law which guarantees that our waters are free from industrial wastes that interfere with the public’s use of public waters.

EPD will host a virtual public hearing at 7:00 p.m. on April 25th, 2024 to receive comments on the draft NPDES Permit Issuance for Rayonier Performance Fibers, LLC.

Join the Zoom public hearing meeting and share your comment of concern: https://gaepd.zoom.us/j/6071665276

The Wilderness Photography Foundation is excited to present the remarkable array of Nature Photographers contributing to the 'Nature's Generosity' Traveling Exhibition 2023 - 2024. For the complete Gallery schedule and Contributor list visit: www.WPFus.org/projects

We are delighted to include photographer Shirley Robinson from St. Simons Island, Georgia, in the exhibition.

"I am passionate about nature photography, especially birds, and I thoroughly enjoy participating in photo contests. My work has been featured in Photography Forum, A Day in the Life of a Photographer, Humane Society Magazine, and Southern Living. I was a finalist in the 'Shoot the Wild Photography' contest. My most notable achievement was placing 8th in the 'Sunning', Stunning Southeast Photo Contest, with nearly 7,000 entries, where I won a trip for four to the Smoky Mountains, including airfare and hotel, valued at $4,500.

My photograph of the Sidney Lanier Bridge was selected for the Arts of Georgia contest, displayed in the Georgia Governor's Mansion for six months, and also won first place in the Jekyll Island photo contest, earning me a $100 gift certificate. Additionally, I have secured second place and several People’s Choice awards in the Big Photo Contest hosted by the Coastal Photography Guild."

Shirley is affiliated with the Wilderness Photography Foundation’s Camera Club Invitational Program, representing:

The Coastal Photographers Guild in Brunswick, Georgia, which is committed to educating photographers of all ages and serving as a dynamic advocate for photographers at any level, offering members the chance to develop their photographic skills in a supportive and enjoyable environment.
For more information or to join, please visit their website at: https://www.coastalphotographersguild.com

The Wilderness Photography Foundation’s Touring Exhibition is making its way to the Goodyear Cottage Gallery on Jekyll Island, Georgia during the month of May 2024. This captivating exhibition is a must-see for all ages. Here are the details:

* Exhibition Dates: May 1st to May 31st, 2024

* Opening Reception: Sunday, May 5th, 2024, from 1 to 3 pm

* Location: Goodyear Cottage Gallery, 321 Riverview Drive, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

* Hosted By: The Jekyll Island Arts Association - https://jekyllartists.com

The exhibition features a unique collection of award-winning images by exceptionally talented nature photographers from across the nation. These stunning works of art celebrate the beauty of our natural world and promote environmental conservation through fine art nature photography. If you’re in the area, don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature captured through the lens of these gifted artists.

More information at www.WPFus.org/projects

The Wilderness Photography Foundation is excited to present the remarkable array of Nature Photographers contributing to the 'Nature's Generosity' Traveling Exhibition 2023 - 2024. For the complete Gallery schedule and Contributor list visit: www.WPFus.org/projects

We are honored to have included photographer Michelle Holton in the exhibition.

Michelle Holton, a wildlife, nature, and landscape photographer from Brunswick, GA, found her passion for photography in 2019. She used her skills to bond with her terminally ill mother, turning her photographs into puzzles they could assemble together. This marked the beginning of her journey into photography. Following her mother's passing in May 2020, Michelle started to share her work, hoping to bring others the joy her mother experienced. She continues to capture the beauty of the Golden Isles, photographing the wonders she encounters daily. She is grateful for the support from her husband, family, and friends, which has inspired her to take her photography to a professional level.

Aside from her nature photography, Michelle is a real estate photographer, certified drone pilot, and video editor. Together with her husband, Daniel, they run Holton Media, a multimedia company focusing on real estate photography and bespoke video production.

Michelle's photographs are available in various formats, including matted and framed prints, canvas wraps, and aluminum metal prints.

See more of Michelle’s work on her website at: https://www.HoltonMedia.com

The comment period closes April 9th, please go to this link and let your voice be heard - https://protectokefenokee.org

OPINION: Georgia’s leaders failed the Okefenokee — and us Pogo Possum, a product of the Okefenokee Swamp and cartoonist Walt Kelly’s imagination, once famously said, “We have met the enemy and he is us.”

WPF Contributing Artist Bill Chambers of simply nature - Photographic Art by Bill Chambers will have his work on display and for sale at the 'Chain of Parks Art Festival'. If you are in the Tallahassee Florida area the weekend of April 20 and 21st, this is a great event to enjoy - see more here - https://chainofparks.org

This editorial by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution is a very interesting read, please have a look and submit your comments before April 9th. The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and Swamp need our help before it is too late.

click-em.ajc.com

The Okefenokee Swamp is in need of our support. There is one final opportunity to share your thoughts on the proposed mining project that could alter the ecosystem provided by the swamp.

Do not delay in commenting – the deadline is April 9, 2024.

You can easily submit your comments at either of the following links:
https://protectokefenokee.org
https://act.southernenvironment.org/o9jl4iw?p2asource=ActionCenter

Protect the Okefenokee I just took action along with to protect the Okefenokee Swamp from a dangerous mine. Click to tell Georgia leaders to reject this harmful project and protect the Okefenokee and the endangered wildlife that call it home. https://selc.link/3SRxHnQ