Elaine O’Keeffe & Liam Toms
"All About Trees"
Photography & Wood Carvings
Artist statement: All about trees is a collection of fine art photography and hand-carved wood spirits. In centuries past, travelers assured their safety through forests by carving wood spirits on walking sticks or pieces of wood and bark. These carvings appeased the spirits thus the traveler was allowed to enter and leave the forest without difficulty. Capturing a glimpse of a wood spirit in the forest was said to be lucky, it guaranteed health, happiness, and good fortune. Trees represent harmony, unity and connections between heaven and Earth, the past and the present, death and rebirth. Being amongst the trees may evoke a feeling of mindfulness, leading us to more aware and compassionate toward our surroundings. As you wander through the exhibit, we hope that you are inspired to explore your surroundings to find beauty amongst the trees and forests.
Elaine O'Keeffe: Elaine feels at peace when surrounded by trees and is drawn to their beauty. Exploring forests, or any areas with a lot of trees, is like being hugged by nature. Whether capturing a seasonal moment, or revealing a hidden treasure, Elaine’s goal is to reveal each tree’s spirit and beauty, as well as the emotion that they evoke.
Elaine is a member of the Winnipeg South Photo Club and served as President for the 2012-13 year. She served as the clubs Exhibit Coordinator during 2016 – 2018, coordinating seven exhibits for the club.
Elaine is on the planning committee for Manitoba Photo Events. This team represents three photo clubs in Winnipeg - Manitoba Camera Club, Manitoba Foto Friends and Winnipeg South Photo Club. The clubs have come together to bring photography speakers that educate and inspire the local photographic community in Manitoba. The speaker for 2019 is Michelle Valberg. Past speakers have been Andre Gallant, David DuChemin, Paul Zizka, Dave Brosha, Andre Gallant, Darwin Wiggett/Samantha Chrysanthou, David DuChemin, Dave Brosha and Paul Zizka.
Liam Toms: An emerging artist, Liam has always been drawn to the outdoors. While exploring in nature, he discovers pieces of wood which seem to have a spirit that is waiting to be revealed. An avid illustrator and carver, Liam has a talent for bringing to life the character and essence within. His art reveals itself chip by chip, first to the artist and then to the viewer.