SEQUIM — Pixel by pixel, Sequim residents can celebrate the wonders of nature from their digital devices.
In celebration of the natural connection between birding and photography, the City of Sequim City Arts Advisory Commission — in partnership with the Dungeness River Audubon Center — is “hosting” the 2019 Audubon Photography Awards Traveling Exhibition.
Because of public health concerns surrounding the COVD-19 coronavirus, this will be a digital exhibit only.
An online opening is set for Friday, April 3, when a link will be posted at sequim.wa.gov and audubon.org.
“We hope you enjoy this unique opportunity to witness these beautiful photographs from the comfort of your home,” city arts coordinator Aurora Lagattuta said.
The 10th year of the contest sees winning photos and honorable mentions selected from 2,253 entrants from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and 10 Canadian provinces and territories to appreciate the wonder of birds and the places they inhabit.
This year, judges introduced the Plants for Birds Prize and the Fisher Prize.
The Plants for Birds Prize was awarded to the highest scoring photograph submitted in the Plants for Birds Division, featuring birds and plants native to the area the photo was taken.
The Fisher Prize was awarded to the photograph depicting the most creative approach to bird photography across all divisions: Professional, Amateur, Youth and Plants for Birds.
The new Plants for Birds Division highlights the importance of native plants that provide natural green spaces for birds and the insects they feed on, exhibit officials said. Audubon’s Plants for Birds program, supported by Coleman and Susan Burke, helps participants find bird-friendly plants native to their area that will attract and protect birds as well as make outdoor spaces better for the environment in the face of a warming climate.
