Stop and Look

Unexpected Art

Continuing with photos from last weekend’s snowstorm, today’s photos confirm my belief that art is everywhere, if we’ll only stop and look for it.

Very often it’s the everyday objects and moments that give us the opportunity to capture or create art. Lighting, shapes, colors or textures are often key components of appealing art. Even an ordinary old stop sign can qualify as art! CLICK for more UNEXPECTED ART

Wildlife Habitat

A Loving Tribute

Did you know that there’s a wildlife habitat in Lewisville? Although it was established 15 years ago, it had escaped my attention until a little over a year ago when our new library opened. The wildlife habitat is located on Lucy Lane, across from the library, tucked along the edge of a small wooded area.

The marker standing along the front of the habitat reads:

In memory of Jeanette E. Messick
The Jeanette E. Messick Wildlife Habitat
Dedicated 1994

I’m told that Jeanette Messick was a beloved teacher’s aide at Lewisville Elementary School who died of cancer. Her passing was such a loss to her students and colleagues that the wildlife habitat was established in her memory.

The small patch of land that makes up the wildlife habitat features birdhouses, birdbaths, benches, and a variety of plants, flowers and trees. Following the meandering pathway through the small habitat will take you over an attractive brick-lined bridge. Along the way, you’ll see some small statues of children and animals. Sadly, it appears that a sundial is missing, most likely due to vandalism.

Did You Know Jeanette Messick?

If you knew Ms. Messick and would like to share something special about her, feel free to do so by CLICKING on the Comment link below. I’d love to hear more about the lady who inspired the wildlife habitat.

Photo Gallery and Google Map

MORE PHOTOS of the Jeanette E. Messick Wildlife Habitat are available in the photo gallery. Plus, a GOOGLE MAP has been created to show you the exact location of the wildlife habitat. Simply CLICK the links below:

Photos: Jeanette E. Messick Wildlife Habitat Photo Gallery
Google Map: Jeanette E. Messick Wildlife Habitat Map

Update on 3/25/09: Jeanette Messick’s daughter, Susan Messick Luebchow, contacted me in response to this blog post. Susan clarified that the wildlife habitat was built by family and friends. Be sure to read Susan’s comments about her mother and the impact she had on so many.

What’s This?

While walking through Lewisville one morning, I noticed this striking scene. The sunlight’s angle and brilliance had created a fun abstraction. I love the lines, the colors and the contrast. Have you guessed it?

That’s right. It’s the tin roof of the Enchanted Cottage on Shallowford Road that’s the former Jennings home place. It’s located next to the mill building that’s now the primary home of the Enchanted Cottage.

Expanding Your Photographic Vision

Can you guess what this unusual image is? For a hint, the photo is from the same subject of a previous article titled Simplicity. Even though both photos incorporate red and yellow as their dominant colors, those are not the true colors of this particular photo. Some fun experimentation led me to alter the original colors quite dramatically, and I liked this color rendition.

If you consider other components often found on this subject (keeping in mind the colors are different than what’s shown in this photo), you just might be able to guess the source of this close-up shot. Try pushing your mind beyond what you think you’re seeing in the photo, and see if you can come up with a few guesses.

If you’re stumped, or are in a hurry, keep reading. I’ll also share THREE TIPS on expanding your photographic vision. CLICK to read more.

Previous Photos →