[D]og friendly attraction, Grizedale Forest is hosting a memorable canine-focused photography exhibition.
The portraits, taken amongst the beautiful landscapes of Grizedale Forest, explore the relationships and bonds between dogs and their companions as well as the life-enhancing qualities of dog ownership.
The exhibition of Karen’s photographs – titled The Welcome Rest – opens at Grizedale Forest on June 7th and runs right across the Summer period. Entrance to the exhibition, as with all art exhibitions at the forest, is free of charge.
Earlier this year, photographer Karen Shepherdson invited dog owners and their canine companions to have a free portrait taken as part of the new project. Dog owners (and their pets) came from all over the Lake District to take part.
Grizedale Forest remains one of Europe’s most cherished locations for site-specific art and plays host to over 40 sculptures and features the work of David Nash, Andy Goldsworthy, Robert Koenig and many others. The history of the forest as a location for challenging environmental art dates back to the late 60s drawing influence from the Land Art movement in the USA.
“I make these modest pictures in order to reveal the everyday yet powerful relationships between dogs and their human companions. There is repetition in the location, composition and pose but within that sameness delightful difference too. I value each encounter and particularly thrill in how, without exception the dogs’ (unlike so many of their owners!) always take the task seriously.” Karen Shepherdson.
Hazel Stone, Arts Development Manager at Grizedale Forest says, “This is a beautiful process – the special exchange of sitters portraits for an artist’s photographic prints. Karen Shepherdson’s work adds to the experience of both photographer and sitters. This is a exceptional opportunity for dog lovers to be involved in an exciting photography project whilst they enjoy the forest.”
Further information – http://www.karenshepherdson.com/news/
