Nature’s Wild Showdown: Who Will Win the Photo Spotlight?

Tomatillos part of the photo showdown for Chase the Light
“Tomatillos,” by Carol Schiraldi

Welcome to a delightful dive into a collection that’s not just about pretty pictures this time. Oh no, my friends! This is a suspenseful showdown of nature’s quirkiest creations, all created and submitted to the Chase the Light fundraiser for Photographic Center Northwest. It’s their annual fundraiser to help raise money for educational programs at the center, and I’m doing my best to help out again this year.

“Did you feed the fish?” by Carol Schiraldi
“Horns,” by Carol Schiraldi

Picture this: a panel of curators, armed with their discerning eyes, will soon decide which of these gems will grace a pop-up exhibit in downtown Seattle on June 21. The tension is palpable, it’s a real head to head showdown, and I can’t help but wonder which one will they pick. Will it be the tomatillos, the koi, or perhaps the cows that steal the spotlight? Let’s explore!

Tomatillo Me

First up, we have a mountain of tomatillos, those little green wonders that look like they’re ready for a superhero movie. Seriously, if vegetables had capes, these would be the ones! They’re not just for salsa, folks; they’re the unsung heroes of the garden, ready to add a zesty twist to your culinary escapades. Imagine them whispering secrets of flavor while you chop them up. What a scene these little guys make, not just for your eyes, but also for your taste buds. The only question here, will their vibrant green hue be enough to catch the curator’s eye?

Let’s Be Koi

Next, let’s swim into the serene world of koi fish. You know how I do love my koi fish and I visit the breeder frequently. This time, I was lucky enough to catch feeding time at the pond, and what a treat that was.

These vibrant fish glide through the water like they own the pond, flaunting their colors like they just stepped off a watery runway. Do you ever wonder what they think about while they’re swimming? “Is it feeding time yet?” “Hey, get me some more of those pellets?” or “Maybe I really should start a blog about pond life”? The possibilities are endless! But will their diva-like presence be enough to swim into a spot in the exhibit?

Moooo!

Now, for the next image in the showdown, let’s take a detour to the farm, where we find a group of cows casually hanging out. They’re like the cool kids at school, just chilling by the red barn, probably discussing the latest gossip in the pasture. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to be a cow for a day? Grazing, napping, and the occasional moo. It sounds like a dream job, doesn’t it? But will their laid-back charm and hint of a horn here resonate with the curators?

Moss Tapestry Showdown

“Intersection,” by Carol Schiraldi

Moving on, we encounter a lush tapestry of moss. This isn’t just any moss; it’s a vibrant green explosion that could make even the most mundane forest floor look like a magical carpet. Not actually a floor, this one is from a living wall, found over in the borrowed garden (AKA my local garden center.) This image is like nature’s version of green confetti, celebrating life in all its fuzzy glory. Just imagine the tiny creatures that call this home. Are there any tiny fairies in there, perhaps? Or maybe just some very happy bugs. But will this enchanting scene be enough to sway the judges? Will they go green for the showdown this time?

Your Nature is Too Orb-alicious!

‘Gazing Globe,” by Carol Schiraldi

Finally, we arrive at a crystal-clear orb nestled in the embrace of a tree. This isn’t just any orb; it’s a portal to another world! Or at least, it’s a great way to reflect on life while contemplating your next move. What’s more poetic than a glass ball capturing the essence of nature? It’s like the universe saying, “Hey, take a moment to appreciate the beauty around you!” But will this mystical orb be the one that captures the curator’s heart? Will they opt for the unexpected here or go for something more traditional?

Let the Showdown Begin!

So there you have it, this are my entries for Chase the Light. It is a suspenseful collection of green wonders that remind us of the quirky, humorous, and sometimes downright absurd aspects of nature. Each piece tells a story, inviting us to pause, reflect, and maybe even chuckle a little. As we await the curator’s decision, let’s embrace the anticipation and remember that, in the end, it’s all about celebrating the beautiful chaos of life.

Which piece do you think will make the cut? The countdown is on! The showdown is here!

Don’t forget to follow along, check out the slideshow where the winner of the big showdown will be revealed, and, yes, you too can purchase work online in order to help the fundraiser.

Until next time…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *