The School of Light: Interpreting the Landscape Through Photography and Painting

During this hands-on guided landscape walk, landscape photographer and artist Robert Rodriguez Jr. will discuss the interconnectedness between painting and photography through the theme of light. Just as “Hudson River School” painters like Thomas Cole and Frederic Church relied on light to portray scenes of sublime nature, photographers rely on light as an essential part of their practice. Participants will look at Olana’s artist-designed landscape anew through a professional photographer’s eyes and get an opportunity to practice their own photographic skills. This program series uses Terraforming: Olana’s Historic Photography Collection Unearthed as a framework to discuss Church’s artist-designed house and landscape through the lens of photography. In addition to showcasing the work of contemporary artist David Hartt, Terraforming displays historic photographs from Olana’s collection, illuminating the medium’s role in Church’s life and artistic creations. Robert Rodriguez Jr is a landscape photographer, teacher, and author focused on conveying the beauty and presence he experiences in nature. A graduate of the Berklee College of Music, he transitioned to photography after a 15-year career as a music arranger and producer. His images have appeared in the NY Times, and his photography is featured extensively by a non-profit organization dedicated to land and nature preservation in the Hudson Valley.
Registration required. $15 per person or $10 for members. To become a member, visit Olana.org/membership. Advanced registration is required. For more information email [email protected].