Stunning display by local photographer

Times Reporter       

 

The Strathmore Municipal Library loves hosting art and photography exhibits, and so when local photographer Joe Bratton approached the staff about displaying his work, they enthusiastically said yes.  

Bratton’s display has been set up in the library since April 1, and will remain there until April 25. 

“Joe’s work is stunning. I had never seen art printed on metal before and vibrancy of the pieces make them a joy to look at,” said Assistant Director of Library Services Carmen Erison.

In addition to the display, Bratton is also holding a contest where people are asked to guess what his ‘Outer Space’ photo is of and how he shot it. Anyone who guesses correctly will have their name entered into a draw for the print. 

“It was actually Joe’s idea to host a contest. This being a first for us, we were thrilled that an artist would provide such an opportunity for our patrons,” said Erison.

Bratton first began learning photography while he was in Britain.

“I was actually taught photography when I was in the British Army way back in the day, I was doing jobs in the army which entailed taking pictures, so I was actually trained by them and I just continued on with it when I left the military in 1996,” said Bratton.

When he left the army, photography became more of a hobby and he would play around with different types of photography. To this day he still shoots a wide range of subjects, using different lenses and landscapes to create his masterpieces. 

“I really like doing these old farms, equipment and stuff like that,” said Bratton.

He found a derelict farm just north and east of town and that’s where he shot a number of the photos on display at the library. For this exhibit most of his prints have been done on metal, with a few on traditional canvas.  

“I was looking at different things to print on and I came across metal prints. I couldn’t find anyone in Calgary to do it so I actually found a company in Toronto and they ship it over here,” said Bratton. 

The one thing with printing on metal is that it can’t print whites, and so any parts that would be white are actually just the metal itself showing through. 

Bratton’s favourite photo on display is a black and white shot he took of an old gas station in Gleichen. His summer job with Alberta One-Call Corporation – the call-before-you-dig company – allows him to travel the county and find new photo subjects. 

Bratton’s display, and contest, at the library ends on April 25. To see some of Bratton’s photography, or to order prints, go to www.thistlephoto.ca.