A Place Called Hope
One day there was an invite to join some photographer groups while they were taking images of the Ambassador Birds at A Place Called Hope. So, never one to say no when opportunity knocks, off I went. I took a lot of snapshots as I didn’t want to get in the way of those paying for this opportunity. What a lovely two days! I was so grateful for being able to look these amazing beings in the eyes, see their different expressions, observe their movements, and watch their reactions to the audience and cameras all aimed at them. They were the center of everyone’s attention and what actors they were! Yes, look closely as there are curious looks, angry glares, and even fearful flinches. You need to be able to see in order to do so.
It was Amber, the Great Horned Owl that I seemed to connect with. Owls are a favorite anyway so seeking out an owl came naturally. Her expressions drew me in and enticed me to get to know her just a little bit better. I quickly become aware of the personality she has and her desire to share a bit of herself with us, her audience. An actor entertaining her admirers. Not all wildlife have the inclination to entertain but connecting with those that do becomes an enlightening experience.
The simple invite for images has turned into a major project with exhibits in Beacon Falls, Seymour, Derby, Ansonia, Guilford, Branford, Hartford, Waterbury, and twice in New Haven. The exhibit at the Ives Gallery in New Haven was the largest with 60 images and I had an awesome review in the New Haven Independent! by Brian Slattery. He said it all so well! Ives Gallery Gives Sanctuary to Raptors.
If you are interested in my curating a solo exhibit please contact me: SophieZylaPhotoSZ@gmail.com. I have a variety of options from one image of each of the 15 birds to 4 each. Some of the exhibit options can include an image of a wing or tail feather in a shadow box. All of the exhibits come with some educational information making them perfect for nature centers or libraries. They also work well as an exhibit in a cafe or workplace. Depending on location and availability, some of the openings have included a couple of APCH raptor visitors! Stop by my website to see some of the images of the fifteen raptors that have been in the various exhibit: SophieZylaPhotos; Raptors & Rehab
To learn about the work that A Place Called Hope does, schedule a photography visit, host an event, have raptor ambassadors to your party, or donate to help the birds visit their website: A Place Called Hope
For a sampling of photo exhibits and images available for showing at your venue visit:
SophieZylaPhotoSZ.com > Photo Exhibit & Gallery Images: https://www.sophiezylaphotosz.com/portfolio/C0000Quhloo1fdzE/G0000h61ZszhyooI