Photography exibit launches at L&A Museum

“Caught My Eye,” an exhibit by photographer Jim Peets, is set to grace the halls of the Museum of Lennox and Addington. Opening night is Jan. 20 and will feature insights from Peets, accompanied by light refreshments and music by Joe Ramsay.

Speaking with Peets, his passion for photography is evident and can be seen, no doubt, through the exhibit that documents his love for travel, people, nature, and community.

Peets noted that, as a child, he loved to take things apart, including cameras found in his family home. After buying his first camera as a teenager and subsequently discovering the joy of developing his own film, Peets was hooked on photography.

“When I discovered developing my own film…that was magic,” commented Peets.

Peets’ photography skills landed him a job with Ontario Parks, which in turn led him to some “wild and beautiful places”.

“Caught My Eye” will feature some of Peets’ photography, featuring beautiful places from around the world, including Nevada, Arizona, Korea, the Yukon, Quebec, Georgian Bay, Ottawa, Kingston, and finally, Napanee. The photographs were all taken between 2014 and 2023.

While Peets noted that he tends to be interested in photographing landscapes, he also explained he has recently experimented with abstract photography.

“Sometimes, I use computer software to play with an image and turn it into something different,” said Peets. “Other times, I’ll deliberately move the camera when taking the picture so the slow shutter speed blurs things.”

Talking about some of his subject matter, Peets explained how a recent trip to Mexico inspired him to focus his photography on people at work.

“Recently, we were in Mexico, and coming off the plane, we could see a couple of men sitting on a cart taking a break,” he said. “That turned into a theme…people who work in various capacities.”

The opening reception on Jan. 20 will begin at 7 p.m., with the doors of 97 Thomas Street East opening at 6:30 pm. Entry is $3 per person, with museum members gaining entrance for free. 

Pre-registration is not required. The exhibit is best suited for those aged 13 and older.

For more information, please visit: https://countymuseum.ca/event/catch-my-eye-exhibit-opening/.