There are always impressive light displays on various homes this time of year - it’s a great way to overcome the much shorter daylight hours and put a bit of cheer into the cold of December - but it would be hard to top the show on this weekend at Winnipeg’s famed Portage & Main intersection.
The Fairmont Winnipeg hotel transformed its frontage into a multi-story Christmas tree - a photographer’s delight not only for the scale but also a welcome mild weekend left temperatures high enough to work comfortably with some night photography to capture it.
Also present nearby was a message of hope, literally, spelled out for all to see atop a downtown condo. I’ve actually seen this on a few other residential decorations too this week.
It’s been a rough year for many of us but it’s a lot of individual efforts like this that will, I think, turn things in a positive way for the most people.
Winnipeg business
PIVOT to a carbon-free economy
Recently I had a profound experience photographing Tabitha Langel, the lady who started Tall Grass Prairie Bakery for the National Film Board.
The NFB is working on a project called PIVOT, in partnership with McGill University to tell the stories of entrepreneurs who are pivoting to a zero-carbon economy. Not only did I get to see the efforts made by my favourite neighbourhood bakery - electric delivery car, locally sourced grains for their own mill, and more - but I benefitted from time generously given by a philosophical, spiritual person. There is just an undeniable aura of goodness around Tabitha.
As we sat together, making photographs, we talked and she shared with me that she has been near the Assiniboine River (seen behind her in the leading picture here) since she was 11 years old. It was the kind of conversation that happen in the best portrait sessions.
As a saying posted in the bakery says, “bread is never heavy on a long journey.”
Living, and working, with purpose
Between social media, and how ubiquitous it’s become in our lives, and the isolation (physical and otherwise) of the Covid era, it’s increasingly common to know people and somehow never actually meet them.
This was the case with Oly Backstrom, whom I knew on Twitter but never met face-to-face. Happily that changed this weekend when we met in Winnipeg’s Exchange District. Gifted with a warm autumn day and a well-spaced patio we talked about my photography and his work with SCE Lifeworks, who dedicate themselves to helping connect employers with candidates with intellectual disabilities.
It’s noble work, and it reminded me that a life with meaning and purpose is one of the greatest gifts you can give a person. Oly is a person who can be proud to say what he does for a living, and know it’s meaningful work. Good to finally make it ‘real’, Oly!
Lennard Taylor Design Studio
Shortly before business and most social interaction shut down, I approached an artist and business person I always admired here in Winnipeg, fashion designer Lennard Taylor.
In addition to achieving the rare feat of carving out a truly unique look to the art and business he put out into the world, what always caught my eye was his positivity and upbeat attitude - which he demonstrated again when I approached him about producing some portraits of him at his Exchange District studios.
Taylor also runs the beautiful photo and event studio, Cloakroom Wellness and it was an absolute delight to spend some time making photographs in its gorgeous light, high ceilings and wide open spaces.
Lennard is continuing his business responsibly and safely during this time, offering virtual consultations among other services. Check out details at his website or here for more information. Remember, now more than ever SUPPORT LOCAL!
