SRQ Scene: Art & Nature

The Fence at Nathan Benderson Park. (Sarasota)

The Fence2018 is a traveling outdoor photography exhibit that will go to eight cities across the country including Boston, Atlanta, and Santa Fe.  Currently in Sarasota, it is on two sections of double-sided fencing on the perimeter of Benderson Park.  The photos have been enlarged and are printed on fabric which is attached to the fence. Depending on the time of day and the light, the cross-hatching of the fence may show through obscuring the images a bit.  We were there just before noon and one side was somewhat affected.  

The photos are arranged by categories with explanations about the photographer and what he or she was trying to accomplish.  Subject matter ranges widely from food to former female prisoners at home to topography to dog grooming to families living on either side of the border meeting at a wall.  Whimsy, humor, pathos, and celebration exist in these photos.  The exhibit runs through the end of January and is worth a visit.

Part of “Hairy” series by Grace Chon
Azalea Trail Maid by Adair Rutledge

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Being obscured in nature by Brooke Didonato

Robinson Preserve (Bradenton)

A number of my friends have enthused about Robinson Preserve and how much they have enjoyed kayaking here.  We had never visited it before, but it’s close by and used my sister and brother-in-law’s visit as incentive to do so.  Located in northwest Bradenton, this preserve is very open and includes grasslands and saltwater marsh.  There are a number of hiking and biking trails and a pedestrians only path.  The pedestrian path is wide and made of a spongy material making it very comfortable under the feet.  It winds around several ponds and up and down gentle inclines.   We saw a large cluster of ducks as well as white pelicans, anhingas, and herons.  Even one lone roseate spoonbill.  The preserve is open from sunrise to early evening and has an observation tower and pavilion which we didn’t explore this time.  For a change of pace, this pleasant preserve is a relaxing way to enjoy nature.

White pelicans


Note: All photos by JWFarrington (some rights reserved).