Photography, “a passion and a hobby”
“They were my pride and joy from that program,” Stephanie Leduc says as she glances over at her photographs that now line the exhibit space at the Little Green Library. Photographs which she sheepishly admits have been stored under her bed gathering dust since she graduated from the photography program at Dawson College several years ago. But for the next couple of months, the Little Green Library will be their new home.
When asked about what kind of photography she most enjoys, Leduc answers almost before the question is even finished being asked: “Still life. Definitely still life”. The compilation of photos on the library walls support that statement. One exhibit wall is lined with Leduc’s intricately detailed and sometimes even abstract photography of flowers, while the wall perpendicular to it highlights her skill in capturing the culinary arts. The photographs showcase her passion for nature and cooking, as well as photography. She says of the desire that drives her work: “I just want people to be able to look [at them] and feel something—Feel emotions when they see a wash of color and they’re not sure what it is, but they can use their imagination since the photographs have no names” to give any indications as to what they are. Leduc says she enjoys the conversations she has with people as they observe her photos and inquire about what it is they are actually looking at.
Leduc describes photography as her “passion and hobby” and it is one she began to cultivate at a young age. The field also brings with it a sense of nostalgia for her as she explains that it was her Dad’s interest in photography that rubbed off on her. He used to enjoy developing from negatives and Shephanie recalls often borrowing the cameras throughout the years, going outside and getting lost in photographing nature. Though she has since moved to Montreal for her studies, she still has a fond connection of home: “I’m proud to say that I’m from here and that I was inspired by Ormstown.”
After only having had her work compiled and displayed for school-related assignments, having her work on display in her hometown area is proving to be a rewarding experience for her. “So far, from the feedback I’m getting, it makes me want to try even more to get my work out there and show it to people,” said Leduc upon the conclusion of her vernissage at the library on May 30.