The work of renowned Arkansas nature photographer Tim Ernst will be on display at John Brown University's Windgate Visual Arts West gallery later this month.
Ernst's photography has been seen in hundreds of national, regional and local publications including National Geographic, Outdoor Photographer and The New York Times.
An opening reception for the exhibit titled "Arkansas Wilderness: A Rare Quality of Light," will be held at 6 p.m., Jan. 20. Ernst will give a special presentation at 7 p.m. The exhibit will be open at the Windgate Visual Arts West gallery until Feb. 13. All events are free and open to the public.
Ernst is a native of Arkansas who lives near the headwaters of the Buffalo National River with his wife Pamela, according to his online gallery. Fourteen collections of Ernst's wilderness photographs have been published as coffee table picture books.
Much of Ernst's work features Arkansas scenes. All the photographs in the exhibit were taken in Arkansas, according to Charles Peer, gallery director. Many photos depict familiar landmarks from the Buffalo River area, such as Hawksbill Crag and Glory Hole.
"We are so fortunate to have someone of his talent shooting our local landscape," he said.
This is the second time that Ernst has visited JBU, according to Peer. He first lectured and exhibited photos in the fall of 2004.
"It was one of those exhibits that everyone responded too," Peer said. "He does a good job of connecting with his audience and sharing information about his shots."
"The Photography Department is happy to welcome back Tim to JBU," said Neil Holland, associate professor of visual art. "He is one of the few photographers that we have shown who focuses on the natural world and it's beauty and color in particular. It is always a refreshing reminder that we live in a beautiful place and that the enjoyment of this world is available for anyone who will take the time to look for it."
Ernst will hold workshops with the students while he is on campus, Holland said.
"Drawing inspiration from nature is Tim's specialty... We have found that Tim is particularly good at challenging students to think about and embrace nature as an inspirational source," he said.
Holland suggested that anyone who is familiar with Ernst's work from books, calenders and magazines visit the gallery and look at the photographs hanging in a display space.
"It is a completely different atmosphere and provides a more interactive experience," he said.
The gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday.
General News on 01/11/2015