Watkins Glen State Park is the flagship state park of the Finger Lakes region in New York, world-renowned for its dramatic 400-foot-deep gorge and 19 waterfalls packed into a two-mile stretch.

South Stack Lighthouse, located on a small islet, Ynys Lawd, off the coast of Anglesey in Wales, is a historic lighthouse built in 1809. It was built by Trinity House to mark the treacherous rocks below and guide ships on the Dublin-Holyhead-Liverpool route. Known for its dramatic location on steep cliffs, it is accessible via a staircase of 400 steps. For a fee visitors can tour the former engine room and climb to the top of the lighthouse. South Stack is a wonderful place to watch thousands of breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins.

Excerpt from the Information Board:

Upright Motive No. 5 is part of a series of vertical bronze sculptures Moore created between 1955 and 1956. Taller than the average human, this work is meant to be viewed in the round. The back is relatively flat, with four stubs protruding from its lower section, while a rounded shape similar to a bowling pin is modelled in slight relief near the top. The front looks and feels very different, however, with its dramatic swells and recesses. For Moore, a sculpture is a three-dimensional object whose forms should engage the viewer physically as well as visually. Moore called this overall bodily experience "scale".

Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itsukushima_Shrine:

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.

The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.

Paolo Veronese — Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane or Christ Supported by an Angel (1583-1584). Although Veronese belongs to the Late Renaissance, this painting anticipates the Baroque style through its dramatic intensity. Jesus’s strength is failing, and a large, majestic angel physically supports Him, preventing Him from falling to the ground—a detail that underscores Christ’s profound human frailty in this moment.

The Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane was originally in the Santa Maria Maggiore in Venice. In this painting Veronese repeats the scheme of composition inaugurated in the baptism for San Nicolò, once again placing the figures of Christ and the great winged angel supporting him, caught in an unexpected gleam of light, on the left, while the figures of the sleeping apostles, much smaller in size, are arranged in a deeply shadowed landscape on the right.

Паоло Веронезе - «Христос, підтримуваний ангелом» (1583-1584) Хоча Веронезе - представник пізнього Відродження, ця картина передбачає бароко своїм драматизмом. Сили залишають Ісуса, і великий, величний ангел фізично підтримує Його, не даючи впасти на землю, що підкреслює глибоку людську слабкість Христа цієї миті.

Картина «Христос у Гетсиманському саду» спочатку знаходилася у венеційській церкві Санта-Марія-Маджоре. У цьому полотні Веронезе повторює композиційну схему, вперше застосовану ним у картині «Хрещення» для церкви Сан-Ніколо: він знову розміщує ліворуч постаті Христа та великого крилатого ангела, що підтримує Його (обидва вони вихоплені несподіваним променем світла), тоді як значно менші за розміром постаті сплячих апостолів розташовані праворуч, у зануреному в глибоку тінь пейзажі.

This gorge was made famous by the early impressionist paintings of the Dutch painter Petrus Van der Velden, who was captivated by its dramatic flows and somber light. This is a modern take on his portrayal of the river, a three-image stitch shot with a Rodenstock Grandagon-N 65mm with front tilt of 4 degrees to lay the focus plane back across the scene. Separate images were taken with rear shift of -15, 0 and 15mm, with these stitched in Lightroom before final processing in Photoshop.

Castle Hill in the Canterbury region is renowned for its dramatic limestone boulders, which resemble the ruins of an ancient stone castle. It's a popular destination for rock climbing, bouldering, and sightseeing. The area also holds cultural significance for the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand.

Great Blue Heron in mating plumage

A full display of its dramatic, ornamental plumage with the goal of attracting a mate.

Badlands National Park is in South Dakota. Its dramatic landscapes span layered rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires. Bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs inhabit its sprawling grasslands.

Badlands National Park is in South Dakota. Its dramatic landscapes span layered rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires. Bison, bighorn sheep and prairie dogs inhabit its sprawling grasslands.

Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itsukushima_Shrine:

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.

The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.

Revisiting a vantage point which I last photographed just under two years ago, this is the popular view of St Paul's Cathedral from the southern end of the London Millennium Footbridge. The image was shot about 30 minutes before sunrise on a clear but very hazy morning, creating a soft glow along the horizon and leaving the buildings near Barbican and Moorgate only faintly visible. The view from Bankside had changed considerably since my last shoot: several cranes had sprung up north of the Thames, scaffolding had been set up along the north end of the Cathedral's dome, and graffiti had been scrawled along the glass panels of the Millennium Bridge leading to the river's walkway. It was also a pleasant surprise to find that while St Paul's Cathedral would previously have switched off all external lights at around 1am, several of its dramatic spotlights were still switched on at 4am. All of which made the project a fun challenge to return to, with the peaceful early-morning atmosphere a world away from the bustling scene an hour later when the city's morning commute would begin.

Nine bracketed exposures were captured for the final image, with luminosity masks used in Photoshop to blend the exposures and to ensure a clean finish in the shadows while controlling the highlights, particularly inside the building windows and across the sky, where it was important to me to retain the original tones and colour. I then isolated the sky using a combination of Quick Mask selection and the Pen Tool, as well as the walkway leading from the bridge to the Thames Path. This allowed me to edit the sky and the cityscape separately, and to target my brighter exposures to the walkway and the bridge's railings without affecting the rest of the image. The cranes from the skyline and the scaffolding around St Paul's were removed, but I left the graffiti in, as I felt it added to the story within the scene. After this, the image was colour-graded using a mixture of Colour Balance, Hue/Saturation and Selective Colour adjustments, toning down the yellow along the Cathedral while emphasising the pink tones in the sky and the aqua along the bridge's glass panels.

Inside Nik's Colour Efex Pro, I applied a gentle amount of Pro Contrast to the buildings to give them greater definition against the sky, as well as a very sparing amount of the Detail Extractor filter to bring out the texture inside St Paul's. I also lowered the midtone and shadow contrast along the walkway in the foreground, as a softer finish in the foreground seemed like it would help to guide viewers' eyes to the bridge and Cathedral in the distance. The final adjustments were a low-opacity Gradient Map to inject a small amount of blue into the shadows and to bring out the warmer tones in the sky, and finally, in Camera Raw, a small increase to the highlights around the Cathedral's dome to emphasise the building's lighting.

It will be interesting to see the result of the construction work near St Paul's, which will hopefully complement the skyline without obscuring the view and make the scene as much of a joy to revisit in another couple of years.

You can also connect with me on Facebook, 500px, Google+ and Instagram.

Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itsukushima_Shrine:

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.

The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.

The city of Medellín is known as the "City of Eternal Spring" due to its pleasant year-round climate.

Medellín is situated within the Aburrá Valley in the Andes Mountains.

The city is characterized by its dramatic landscape, featuring numerous red-brick buildings spread along the steep valley slopes.

Taken in Medellin, Colombia.

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a stunning fjord located in Fiordland National Park, in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. Known for its dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, it was carved by glaciers during the ice ages. There is a waterfall in the middle bottom of the shot. Several dolphins and three seals napping on a big rock were spotted during the cruise.

Lago di Braies (Pragser Wildsee) is one of the most popular places to visit in the Dolomites. This crystal-clear aquamarine lake, with its dramatic mountainous backdrop, easy walking trail, and rowboats, has long been attracting visitors

©2023 - Sagar Mohanty - All Rights Reserved.

DO NOT USE ANY OF MY IMAGES WITHOUT MY PERMISSION.

The use of my images, in whole or in part, for any purpose, including reproduction, storage, manipulation, digital or otherwise, is strictly prohibited

For my video: youtu.be/GcMPm3fMjFk?si=cJQWgPttENnSEwaP

Canyon Alpine, British Columbia, Canada

The Fraser Canyon is a spectacular, rugged gorge in British Columbia, Canada, carved by the Fraser River as it flows from the Interior Plateau to the coast. Spanning roughly 195 kilometers along Highway 1 from Hope to Cache Creek, the canyon is celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, churning whitewater rapids, and deep railway/Gold Rush history

Honestly it's so boring to have to stay home without too much nature walk in last serval months. I did a virtual walk through my photo collections that were taken in last few years. This photo caught my eyes for its dramatic sky. Still remember the sunset red tone during my last visit in 2019.

Cuckmere Haven is an area of flood plains in Sussex, England where the river Cuckmere meets the English Channel between Eastbourne and Seaford. Its dramatic chalk landscape with a characteristic cliffy coastline is constantly changing. The cliffs are being eroded at a rate of 30-40 cms every year.

Guilin’s most renowned feature is its dramatic karst terrain. The peaks are made of limestone. Limestone is formed in part from the shells and skeletons of marine animals. Our reptilian marine reptiles are with us still today, still soaring above that ancient ocean floor upon which Guilin is now situated, looking down from the peaks that are their final resting place.

Prints & Downloads are available on my 👉 H O M E P A G E

The beautiful and now tranquil setting of Augustinian Lanercost Priory belies an often troubled history. Standing close to Hadrian's Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, once by Robert Bruce in person. The mortally sick King Edward I rested here for five months in 1306-7, shortly before his death on his final campaign.

The east end of the 13th-century church survives to its full height, housing within its dramatic triple tier of arches some fine monuments.

More photos of Lanercost Priory here: www.flickr.com/photos/davidambridge/albums/72157624989399623

Bangor University – A University Above the City

Seen from above, Bangor University occupies a remarkable position on the hillside, looking across the rooftops of Bangor towards the Menai Strait and the mountains of North Wales. The aerial view captures how closely the university is woven into the city and its dramatic landscape.

Founded in 1884 as the University College of North Wales, it began with just 58 students and 10 staff. The hilltop campus developed in the early 20th century, with the foundation stone of the iconic Main Arts building laid by King Edward VII in 1907.

Today, around 10,000 students and 1,800 staff form the university community. From this elevated setting, the photograph offers a striking perspective on a place where 140 years of academic history meet the landscape of North Wales.

Join me on Facebook | Google+ | Twitter | 500px | Instagram

~~~~~~~~~

Europe - UK - England - Devon - Hartland Devon Heritage Coast - Hartland Quay - Dramatic rocky coast along Atlantic Ocean with Warren Cliff and large upright chevron folds

This part of Devon was an incredible surprise for me, although its rough dramatic beauty has been known to photographers for some time. Even producers of the great TV show "Night Manager" situated few scenes there, and surely there were not the only ones ! Add wonderful period of end of May or early June with its Sea Pink or Purple Sea Thrift Flower in full bloom and you get the perfect mix !

Camera Model: Canon EOS 5DS; Lens: EF16-35mm f/4L IS USM; Focal length: 16.00 mm; Aperture: 14; Exposure time: 30.0 s; ISO: 100

Camera Model: Canon EOS 5DS; Lens: EF16-35mm f/4L IS USM; Focal length: 16.00 mm; Aperture: 20; Exposure time: 30.0 s; ISO: 100

All rights reserved - Copyright © Lucie Debelkova www.luciedebelkova.com

All images are exclusive property and may not be copied, downloaded, reproduced, transmitted, manipulated or used in any way without expressed, written permission of the photographer.

The beautiful and now tranquil setting of Augustinian Lanercost Priory belies an often troubled history. Standing close to Hadrian's Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, once by Robert Bruce in person. The mortally sick King Edward I rested here for five months in 1306-7, shortly before his death on his final campaign.

The east end of the 13th-century church survives to its full height, housing within its dramatic triple tier of arches some fine monuments.

More photos of Lanercost Priory here: www.flickr.com/photos/davidambridge/albums/72157624989399623

Grasspoint located on the Isle of Mull near Loch Don, is a historic and quiet peninsula known for its dramatic coastal scenery, wildlife, and rustic charm, it used to be the main entry point to Mull and was used for cattle and the Sunday Mail boat.

Namdroling monastery is one of the largest buddhist centers in existence today. The monastery is home to nearly 5000 monks and nuns, renowned as a center for the pure upholding of the teachings of the Buddha. Namdroling Monastery , home to the jaw-droppingly spectacular Golden Temple , presided over by an 18m-high gold-plated Buddha. The temple is at its dramatic best when school is in session and it rings out with gongs, drums and chanting of hundreds of young novices. You’re welcome to sit and meditate :-)

Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itsukushima_Shrine:

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.

The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.

Excerpt from miyajima.or.jp/english/spot/spot_other.html:

Designated as a National Important Cultural Property on August 29, 1910

Senjokaku

Hokoku Shrine is dedicated to the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (one of the three unifiers of Japan in the 16th century) and his loyal aid Kato Kiyomasa. The reason for building this structure is clearly stated in a letter by Ankokuji Ekei, head monk of Ankokuji Temple. In 1587, Ekei asked Daiganji Temple, the temple in charge of construction and repair work in Miyajima including Itsukushima Shrine, to build a Buddhist library in which the chanting of Senbu-kyo sutras could be held every month. As there is no board ceiling or outer gate, it is believed that the construction of the building was not completed.

Originally, Amida Buddha and two subordinate Buddhist saints, Anan and Kasho-sonja, were enshrined in the Buddhist altar until the early Meiji era. Since that time, however, the altar has been used in Shinto rituals.

The building is called Senjokaku (Hall of One Thousand Tatami Mats), reflecting its standing as the largest structure on Miyajima Island. The shrine was a popular landmark in Miyajima where many people came to relax and cool themselves and to buy popular souvenirs such as tooth picks, and a variety of legends and traditions have been created here.

The fact that this structure, unique among the buildings belonging to Itsukushima Shrine, is unpainted and that its exact date of founding is recorded makes it a valuable gauge of the passage of time. The traces of weathering on its pillars and floor boards can be used to determine the approximate age of any other wooden structure on Miyajima.

Senjokaku

A piece of wood used as a measuring device in the reconstruction work of the O-Torii in 1873 hangs on a pillar under the floor of the south part of the shrine. Countless votive picture tablets that had been hanging on the walls of Itsukushima Shrine buildings until the mid Meiji era decorate the walls inside the hall.

The shrine did not yet exist at the time of the Battle of Itsukushima in 1555 when the Mori clan defeated the Sue clan to unify the Chugoku region. The headquarters of the Sue clan was located on this hill, which was then called To-no-oka (Pagoda Hill). Starting in the Meiji era, the hill was developed through the establishment of stone steps, among other additions.

The Colorado River is one of the principal rivers (along with the Rio Grande) in the Southwestern United States and in northern Mexico. The 1,450-mile-long river, the 5th longest in the United States, drains an expansive, arid watershed that encompasses parts of seven U.S. states and two Mexican states. The name Colorado derives from the Spanish language for "colored reddish" due to its heavy silt load. Starting in the central Rocky Mountains of Colorado, it flows generally southwest across the Colorado Plateau and through the Grand Canyon before reaching Lake Mead on the Arizona–Nevada border, where it turns south toward the international border. After entering Mexico, the Colorado approaches the mostly dry Colorado River Delta at the tip of the Gulf of California between Baja California and Sonora.

Known for its dramatic canyons, whitewater rapids, and eleven U.S. National Parks, the Colorado River and its tributaries are a vital source of water for 40 million people. An extensive system of dams, reservoirs, and aqueducts divert almost its entire flow for agricultural irrigation and urban water supply. Its large flow and steep gradient are used to generate hydroelectricity, meeting peaking power demands in much of the Intermountain West. Intensive water consumption has dried up the lower 100 miles (160 km) of the river, which has rarely reached the sea since the 1960s.

Native Americans have inhabited the Colorado River basin for at least 8,000 years. Starting around 1 CE, large agriculture-based societies were established, but a combination of drought and poor land use practices led to their collapse in the 1300s. Their descendants include tribes such as the Puebloans, while others including the Navajo settled in the Colorado Basin after the 1000s. In the 1500s, Spanish explorers began mapping and claiming the watershed, which became part of Mexico upon winning its independence from Spain in 1821. Even after most of the watershed became US territory in 1846, much of the river's course remained unknown. Several expeditions charted the Colorado in the mid-19th century—one of which, led by John Wesley Powell, was the first to run the rapids of the Grand Canyon. Large-scale settlement of the lower basin began in the mid- to late-1800s, with steamboats sailing from the Gulf of California to landings along the river that linked to wagon roads to the interior. Starting in the 1860s, gold and silver strikes drew prospectors to the upper Colorado River basin.

Large-scale river management began in the early 1900s, with major guidelines established in a series of international and US interstate treaties known as the "Law of the River". The US federal government constructed most of the major dams and aqueducts between 1910 and 1970; the largest, Hoover Dam, was completed in 1935. Numerous water projects have also involved state and local governments. With all of their waters fully allocated, both the Colorado and the neighboring Rio Grande are now considered among the most controlled and litigated river systems in the world. Since 2000, extended drought has conflicted with increasing demands for Colorado River water, and the level of human development and control of the river continues to generate controversy.

Seen from Tau across Horgefjorden toward Stavanger, this aerial view captures a moment when sunlight breaks through layers of clouds and paints a silver path across the water. The scattered islands and skerries of the Ryfylke coast form a delicate silhouette against the horizon, while the ever-changing sky reminds visitors why Western Norway is known for its dramatic atmosphere. From above, the fjord becomes a meeting place between sea, light, weather and landscape.

Fun fact: Horgefjorden forms part of the complex fjord and island system around Stavanger, where countless islands, sounds and sheltered waterways have shaped transport, trade and coastal life for centuries.

Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah is known for its dramatic desert landscape of canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Print Size 13x19 inches.

Happy Fence Friday

Flickr friends, I will be off for a few days.

Oddyssey - 2005 is the title of the commissioned mural at the new University Hall, build to celebrate the Singapore’s National University Centennial. Measuring 110 sqm and realized in glazed stoneware, it is Delia’s largest ceramic mural, executed as a continuous composition, which was conceived as an integrated artwork for the new building’s architecture as a functional, "cascading wall". It is an interpretation of a timeless and universal theme- the perpetual journey followed by the eternal return to home, the process of maturation trough sacrifices, struggle and aspiration. The large scale of the mural allowed for the creation of an allegoric, symbolic space which is able to convey the message of conquering the unknown and the pleasure and satisfaction of adventure and discovery. The water, in its dramatic transformation, from quiet river or waterfall to open sea or turbulent ocean is used as a metaphor for the shaping, learning and development process students encounter since their early age to their adult life. The water, as a source of life, is the physical and existential medium for all natural growth as much as schools and university in all human societies are the source of knowledge and spiritual nurturing, inspiration and sublime intellectual achievements.

7682

ON EXPLORE

Visit : www.refordgardens.com/

From Wikipedia:

Elsie Stephen Meighen - born January 22, 1872, Perth, Ontario - and Robert Wilson Reford - born in 1867, Montreal - got married on June 12, 1894.

Elsie Reford was a pioneer of Canadian horticulture, creating one of the largest private gardens in Canada on her estate, Estevan Lodge in eastern Québec. Located in Grand-Métis on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, her gardens have been open to the public since 1962 and operate under the name Les Jardins de Métis and Reford Gardens.

Born January 22, 1872 at Perth, Ontario, Elsie Reford was the eldest of three children born to Robert Meighen and Elsie Stephen. Coming from modest backgrounds themselves, Elsie’s parents ensured that their children received a good education. After being educated in Montreal, she was sent to finishing school in Dresden and Paris, returning to Montreal fluent in both German and French, and ready to take her place in society.

She married Robert Wilson Reford on June 12, 1894. She gave birth to two sons, Bruce in 1895 and Eric in 1900. Robert and Elsie Reford were, by many accounts, an ideal couple. In 1902, they built a house on Drummond Street in Montreal. They both loved the outdoors and they spend several weeks a year in a log cabin they built at Lac Caribou, south of Rimouski. In the autumn they hunted for caribou, deer, and ducks. They returned in winter to ski and snowshoe. Elsie Reford also liked to ride. She had learned as a girl and spent many hours riding on the slopes of Mount Royal. And of course, there was salmon-fishing – a sport at which she excelled.

In her day, she was known for her civic, social, and political activism. She was engaged in philanthropic activities, particularly for the Montreal Maternity Hospital and she was also the moving force behind the creation of the Women’s Canadian Club of Montreal, the first women club in Canada. She believed it important that the women become involved in debates over the great issues of the day, « something beyond the local gossip of the hour ». Her acquaintance with Lord Grey, the Governor-General of Canada from 1904 to 1911, led to her involvement in organizing, in 1908, Québec City’s tercentennial celebrations. The event was one of many to which she devoted herself in building bridges with French-Canadian community.

During the First World War, she joined her two sons in England and did volunteer work at the War Office, translating documents from German into English. After the war, she was active in the Victorian Order of Nurses, the Montreal Council of Social Agencies, and the National Association of Conservative Women.

In 1925 at the age of 53 years, Elsie Reford was operated for appendicitis and during her convalescence, her doctor counselled against fishing, fearing that she did not have the strength to return to the river.”Why not take up gardening?” he said, thinking this a more suitable pastime for a convalescent woman of a certain age. That is why she began laying out the gardens and supervising their construction. The gardens would take ten years to build, and would extend over more than twenty acres.

Elsie Reford had to overcome many difficulties in bringing her garden to life. First among them were the allergies that sometimes left her bedridden for days on end. The second obstacle was the property itself. Estevan was first and foremost a fishing lodge. The site was chosen because of its proximity to a salmon river and its dramatic views – not for the quality of the soil.

To counter-act nature’s deficiencies, she created soil for each of the plants she had selected, bringing peat and sand from nearby farms. This exchange was fortuitous to the local farmers, suffering through the Great Depression. Then, as now, the gardens provided much-needed work to an area with high unemployment. Elsie Reford’s genius as a gardener was born of the knowledge she developed of the needs of plants. Over the course of her long life, she became an expert plantsman. By the end of her life, Elsie Reford was able to counsel other gardeners, writing in the journals of the Royal Horticultural Society and the North American Lily Society. Elsie Reford was not a landscape architect and had no training of any kind as a garden designer. While she collected and appreciated art, she claimed no talents as an artist.

Elsie Stephen Reford died at her Drummond Street home on November 8, 1967 in her ninety-sixth year.

In 1995, the Reford Gardens ("Jardins de Métis") in Grand-Métis were designated a National Historic Site of Canada, as being an excellent Canadian example of the English-inspired garden.(Wikipedia) QW636C

Visit : en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsie_Reford

© Copyright

This photo and all those in my Photostream are protected by copyright. No one may reproduce, copy, transmit or manipulate them without my written permission.

#AB_FAV_IN_AUTUMN_ 🍄🍁🍂

or GOLDEN HANDSHAKE? LOL

An Autumn Sunday in North-Wales.

Little winding roads amongst the golden larches, up towards Mount Snowdon, this river surprised me with its golden and indigo colours, the limpid water ice cold and wild.

Wales, with its dramatic scenery, is steeped in mystery and romance.

Its majestic heather-clad hills cut by cascading waterfalls, and mountain streams rushing through gladed valleys are both the places of legends and of history running back into the mists of time.

Yet, beneath the quartzite surface of this jewelled landscape, there is another treasure, as valuable as it is beautiful – Welsh gold.

Today, Welsh gold is scarcer than it has ever been. When mining took place at the Clogau St. David’s Gold Mine in the late 1990s it used to cost over £1000 an ounce to extract.

Look at that golden hand, maybe a giant fell?

Isn't imagination a wonderful gift?

I wish you all a golden day and thank you for visiting, Magda (*_*)

For more: www.indigo2photography.com

Please do not use this image on websites, blogs or any other media without my explicit permission. © All rights reserved

river, hand, leaves, Snowdonia, rapids, water, rocks, Wales, colour, horizontal, "Nikon F4", "Magda indigo"

Wrapping up my Southern Arizona Adventure 2024 with a visit to Amerind Foundation and Texas Canyon. This is stage 9 of 9.

As I drove to the "Artists' House" I liked this curving road among the rock formations.

www.amerind.org/texascanyonnaturepreserve/

Chat GPT

Texas Canyon is a striking natural area located in Cochise County, southeastern Arizona, along Interstate 10 between Benson and Willcox. It is renowned for its dramatic landscape, characterized by massive granite boulders scattered across the desert terrain, creating a rugged and picturesque environment.

The granite boulders in Texas Canyon were formed through millions of years of erosion and weathering. These formations, often precariously balanced, provide a unique and photogenic sight, making the canyon a popular stop for travelers and photographers.

The area is surrounded by the Chiricahua Mountains to the south and other nearby ranges, offering expansive views of the Sonoran Desert with its mix of desert vegetation, including cacti and mesquite trees. The light, especially at sunrise and sunset, enhances the golden hues of the rocks, adding to the area's charm.

Texas Canyon has a rich history tied to the Chiricahua Apache people, who once roamed these lands. Later, it became home to early settlers.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Texas_Canyon

Texas Canyon is a valley in Cochise County, Arizona,[1] about 20 miles east of Benson on Interstate 10. Lying between the Little Dragoon Mountains to the north and the Dragoon Mountains to the south and known for its giant granite boulders, the canyon attracts rockhounds and photographers.

www.arizonahighways.com/article/texas-canyon-nature-preserve

The giant granite boulders along Interstate 10 in Southeastern Arizona have been gracing postcards for decades, but that otherworldly landscape was always off-limits to the general public. Not anymore. Thanks to the Amerind Foundation, 6 miles of trails in the brand-new Texas Canyon

Lourmarin (French pronunciation: [luʁmaʁɛ̃]; Occitan: Lormarin) is a commune in the Vaucluse department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France. Its inhabitants are called Lourmarinois.

... ...

Lourmarin is located in the French region of Provence, at the foot of the Luberon Massif where a southern pass debouches over the Luberon from Apt on the northern side of the Luberon. The pass divides the Grand Luberon from the Petit Luberon range, an area rich in Neolithic remains and noted for its dramatic massifs and rockscapes. The Aigues Brun brook comes out of the pass and runs just to the west of the village (Aigue is a Provençal language word for "water", coming from Latin aqua).

... ...

---- WikiPedia

West Bay is a charming coastal village and former harbour for the market town of Bridport, located in Dorset on the UK's Jurassic Coast. Famous for its dramatic golden sandstone cliffs creating one of the most photographed and recognizable landscapes in the region and for being the filming location of ITV's hit drama Broadchurch, it offers scenic beaches, a working harbour, and great seaside dining

Kirkjufell, or 'Church Mountain', is a distinctly shaped peak found on the north shore of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula, only a short distance away from the town of Grundarfjörður. It is often called ‘the most photographed mountain in Iceland’, due to its dramatic formation and perfect coastal location. Peaking at 463 metres, 1519 feet, Kirkjufell is an impressive landmark. Throughout the centuries, Kirkjufell’s striking slopes have acted as a visual landmark for seafarers and travellers. Within walking distance from Kirkjufell is the serene and perfectly located waterfall Kirkjufellsfoss, or 'Church Mountain Falls', an excellent subject for photographers who can easily frame the mountain in the background. Despite its relatively diminutive height, Kirkjufellsfoss’ three-steps, gentle flow, and dramatic differences between seasons make it as impressive as some of Iceland’s larger waterfalls.

A loaded BNSF grain train continues its dramatic descent to the San Joaquin Valley as it passes through the lush rolling hills of Tehachapi Pass. Spring green has stuck around a bit longer this year thanks to several showers and storms that occurred late in the season.

The Miami Tower is a 47-story, landmark office skyscraper in Miami, Florida, United States. It is located in central Downtown. It is currently the 8th tallest building in Miami and Florida. On April 18, 2012, the AIA's Florida Chapter placed it on its list of Florida Architecture: 100 Years. 100 Places as the Bank of America Tower.

Built for CenTrust Bank in 1987, the 47-story building ranks in the top ten tallest skyscrapers in Miami and in Florida at a height of 625 feet (191 m) and is known for its elaborate night-time illuminations and its dramatic three glass tiers. Designed by the Pei Cobb Freed & Partners architectural firm, the tower consists of two separate structures: A 10-story parking garage owned by the city and the 47-story office tower built upon the air rights of the garage. Preliminary planning for the tower began in February 1980; construction on the garage began by November. The garage was completed in February 1983 and the tower began construction a year later. On August 1984, while the tower was under construction, a 5-alarm fire began on the ninth floor; construction was subsequently delayed for several weeks. On December 15, 1985, the tower was lit for the first time in Miami Dolphins aqua and snowflakes.

By mid-1986, the tower's exterior was complete and the grand opening for the complex was set for early fall that same year. Due to the uneven settling of the tower's foundation to one side by several inches, and the resulting misalignment of the tower's elevator rails, the grand opening for the complex was delayed until February 1987. The complete complex featured the world's only elevated metro station in a skyscraper (Knight Center station). It also gained notoriety for its luxurious interiors, including a sky lobby on the 11th floor covered in marble and gold and a 10,000 sq ft (930 m2) outdoor terrace. Also, its indoor gym features mahogany cabinets. The tower is connected to the James L. Knight Center by a pedestrian walkway and on the first floor is a retail spine covered with green marble. The tower contains 1,160,000 sq ft (108,000 m2) with 503,000 sq ft (46,700 m2) of office space and a 535,000 sq ft (49,700 m2), 1,500 space parking garage.

The building appears during the end credits of the 1986 movie Flight Of The Navigator in an aerial shot of Miami. The very top floors can clearly be seen still under construction.

The roof of the building was the set of Gloria Estefan's 1994 video for "Turn The Beat Around". The building is also one of many featured on the backdrop of the stage on The Tonight Show.

On January 1, 2010, the building was renamed the Miami Tower.

Credit for the data above is given to the following website:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami_Tower

3671

REFORD GARDENS | LES JARDINS DE METIS

Coucher de soleil, Sainte-Flavie.

Visit : www.refordgardens.com/

Photo taken close to REFORD GARDENS. (Sainte-Flavie)

Mrs Elsie Reford loved those beautiful sunsets.

Reference: Elsie's Paradise, The Reford Gardens, Alexander Reford, 2004, ISBN 2-7619-1921-1, That book is a must for Reford Gardens lovers!

''I shall always, all my life, want to come back to those sunsets.'' Elsie Reford, July 20, 1913. (page 25)

" It is just after 8 o'clock and I am sitting in front of my big window with the gorgeous panorama of a glorious afterglow from a perfect sunset. There is every hue of blue on the water of 'the Blue Lagoon' while Pointe-aux-Cenelles is bathed in pink and crimson and the dark hills of the north shore seem no further than two or three miles distant. I don't think in the whole world at this moment there could be anything more beautiful." Elsie Reford, June 2, 1931. (page 81)

''One thing I can do that no one else can is to pass the love that I feel for this place and this woman''. -Alexander Reford

Visit : www.refordgardens.com/

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From Wikipedia:

Elsie Stephen Meighen - born January 22, 1872, Perth, Ontario - and Robert Wilson Reford - born in 1867, Montreal - got married on June 12, 1894.

Elsie Reford was a pioneer of Canadian horticulture, creating one of the largest private gardens in Canada on her estate, Estevan Lodge in eastern Québec. Located in Grand-Métis on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, her gardens have been open to the public since 1962 and operate under the name Les Jardins de Métis and Reford Gardens.

Born January 22, 1872 at Perth, Ontario, Elsie Reford was the eldest of three children born to Robert Meighen and Elsie Stephen. Coming from modest backgrounds themselves, Elsie’s parents ensured that their children received a good education. After being educated in Montreal, she was sent to finishing school in Dresden and Paris, returning to Montreal fluent in both German and French, and ready to take her place in society.

She married Robert Wilson Reford on June 12, 1894. She gave birth to two sons, Bruce in 1895 and Eric in 1900. Robert and Elsie Reford were, by many accounts, an ideal couple. In 1902, they built a house on Drummond Street in Montreal. They both loved the outdoors and they spend several weeks a year in a log cabin they built at Lac Caribou, south of Rimouski. In the autumn they hunted for caribou, deer, and ducks. They returned in winter to ski and snowshoe. Elsie Reford also liked to ride. She had learned as a girl and spent many hours riding on the slopes of Mount Royal. And of course, there was salmon-fishing – a sport at which she excelled.

In her day, she was known for her civic, social, and political activism. She was engaged in philanthropic activities, particularly for the Montreal Maternity Hospital and she was also the moving force behind the creation of the Women’s Canadian Club of Montreal, the first women club in Canada. She believed it important that the women become involved in debates over the great issues of the day, « something beyond the local gossip of the hour ». Her acquaintance with Lord Grey, the Governor-General of Canada from 1904 to 1911, led to her involvement in organizing, in 1908, Québec City’s tercentennial celebrations. The event was one of many to which she devoted herself in building bridges with French-Canadian community.

During the First World War, she joined her two sons in England and did volunteer work at the War Office, translating documents from German into English. After the war, she was active in the Victorian Order of Nurses, the Montreal Council of Social Agencies, and the National Association of Conservative Women.

In 1925 at the age of 53 years, Elsie Reford was operated for appendicitis and during her convalescence, her doctor counselled against fishing, fearing that she did not have the strength to return to the river.”Why not take up gardening?” he said, thinking this a more suitable pastime for a convalescent woman of a certain age. That is why she began laying out the gardens and supervising their construction. The gardens would take ten years to build, and would extend over more than twenty acres.

Elsie Reford had to overcome many difficulties in bringing her garden to life. First among them were the allergies that sometimes left her bedridden for days on end. The second obstacle was the property itself. Estevan was first and foremost a fishing lodge. The site was chosen because of its proximity to a salmon river and its dramatic views – not for the quality of the soil.

To counter-act nature’s deficiencies, she created soil for each of the plants she had selected, bringing peat and sand from nearby farms. This exchange was fortuitous to the local farmers, suffering through the Great Depression. Then, as now, the gardens provided much-needed work to an area with high unemployment. Elsie Reford’s genius as a gardener was born of the knowledge she developed of the needs of plants. Over the course of her long life, she became an expert plantsman. By the end of her life, Elsie Reford was able to counsel other gardeners, writing in the journals of the Royal Horticultural Society and the North American Lily Society. Elsie Reford was not a landscape architect and had no training of any kind as a garden designer. While she collected and appreciated art, she claimed no talents as an artist.

Elsie Stephen Reford died at her Drummond Street home on November 8, 1967 in her ninety-sixth year.

In 1995, the Reford Gardens ("Jardins de Métis") in Grand-Métis were designated a National Historic Site of Canada, as being an excellent Canadian example of the English-inspired garden.(Wikipedia)

Visit : en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elsie_Reford

LES JARDINS DE MÉTIS

Créés par Elsie Reford de 1926 à 1958, ces jardins témoignent de façon remarquable de l’art paysager à l’anglaise. Disposés dans un cadre naturel, un ensemble de jardins exhibent fleurs vivaces, arbres et arbustes. Le jardin des pommetiers, les rocailles et l’Allée royale évoquent l’œuvre de cette dame passionnée d’horticulture. Agrémenté d’un ruisseau et de sentiers sinueux, ce site jouit d’un microclimat favorable à la croissance d’espèces uniques au Canada. Les pavots bleus et les lis, privilégiés par Mme Reford, y fleurissent toujours et contribuent , avec d’autres plantes exotiques et indigènes, à l’harmonie de ces lieux.

Created by Elsie Reford between 1926 and 1958, these gardens are an inspired example of the English art of the garden. Woven into a natural setting, a series of gardens display perennials, trees and shrubs. A crab-apple orchard, a rock garden, and the Long Walk are also the legacy of this dedicated horticulturist. A microclimate favours the growth of species found nowhere else in Canada, while the stream and winding paths add to the charm. Elsie Reford’s beloved blue poppies and lilies still bloom and contribute, with other exotic and indigenous plants, to the harmony of the site.

Commission des lieux et monuments historiques du Canada

Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.

Gouvernement du Canada – Government of Canada

© Copyright

This photo and all those in my Photostream are protected by copyright. No one may reproduce, copy, transmit or manipulate them without my written permission.

Kamloops & Whisler, CANADÀ 2024

Mount Currie is the most imposing and recognizable natural landmark that dominates the landscape of the village of Pemberton and the surrounding valley in British Columbia.

Geography: Standing at 2,591 metres (8,501 feet), it is a spectacular alpine peak and part of the Pacific Ranges. Its dramatic presence and silhouette make it easily visible from most of the Pemberton Valley.

Indigenous Significance: The mountain holds deep cultural and ancestral meaning for the St'at'imc Nation (Lillooet), the Indigenous peoples of the region. Its traditional name is Ts'zil, and it forms part of their traditional territory.

Adventure: While the mountain is a technical challenge for climbers due to rocky conditions, it is a popular site for activities like paragliding (as the air currents around the mountain base are ideal) and strenuous hiking in the surrounding area.

Symbol: Mount Currie serves as a visual symbol and focal point for the identity of the Pemberton community.

This vibrant scene captures a charming corner of Taormina, a historic town on the east coast of Sicily, Italy. Set against a backdrop of overcast skies, the photograph showcases a typical town square lined with centuries-old buildings and lively cafés. Taormina has been a beloved destination since ancient times, known for its dramatic views of Mount Etna and its well-preserved Greco-Roman theater. Today, it remains a cultural and historical jewel, blending Roman, Byzantine, Arab, and Norman influences, all of which contribute to its unique character.

The architecture in this image reflects the town’s layered history. The buildings exhibit a warm palette of ochre and beige tones, common in Mediterranean constructions, and feature charming balconies adorned with flowers. The use of stone, arched doorways, and wooden shutters hints at a mix of Baroque and traditional Sicilian styles. The pharmacy on the right side, "Farmacia Ragusa," exemplifies how modern life is integrated into historic settings. Narrow staircases and uneven cobblestones add to the authenticity of the old-world ambiance.

Culturally, Taormina has long been a crossroads of civilizations, a melting pot of traditions that still thrive in its everyday life. This square, with its mix of tourists and locals, illustrates the town’s enduring appeal. Taormina often hosts classical music concerts, theater performances, and film festivals, enriching its vibrant cultural scene. The town’s relaxed pace, friendly residents, and scenic beauty make it an inspiring place for artists, writers, and visitors from around the globe.

Culinary traditions also shine in this scene. Several restaurants are visible, offering “Traditional Sicilian Food” as proudly displayed on the signage. This includes dishes like arancini (stuffed rice balls), caponata (eggplant stew), and freshly made pasta with seafood. Sicily’s cuisine is known for its blend of Arabic spices, Norman techniques, and Mediterranean ingredients, all of which are deeply rooted in the island’s diverse history. The al fresco dining setup, even on a cloudy day, speaks to the importance of food and socializing in Sicilian culture.

RX_02497_20240509_Taormina

Lizard Point, is Britain's most southerly point. The area is famous for its dramatic cliff walks, wild flowers and geological features. The point is a spectacular location with steep cliffs and stunning views.

The Great Torii on Itsukushima (Miyajima) Island near Hiroshima. Part of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine UNESCO World Heritage Site.

From Wikipedia: Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.

The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.

The Eagle Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder in the Taurus Mountains, impresses with its dramatic cliffs and spectacular views. During this tour, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy the untouched beauty of nature as you hike through the valley and explore the mesmerizing landscapes.

We used to head down the Pacific Coast from Monterey (next to Carmel) to San Simeon almost every January. What better way to spend an anniversary than a week on Big Sur. You would think with all those trips, I would have photos of every highlight, but I haven't been diligent and I missed one of the biggest attraction, Bixby Creek Bridge. One time, winter storms close the highway. A second opportunity, so many tourists, some actually parked ON the Pacific Coast Highway.

This one image will give you some idea why Big Sur is a favorite.

From Wiki: "Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of the Central Coast of the U.S. state of California, between Carmel and San Simeon, where the Santa Lucia Mountains rise abruptly from the Pacific Ocean. It is frequently praised for its dramatic scenery. Big Sur has been called the "longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States", a sublime "national treasure that demands extraordinary procedures to protect it from development", and "one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation."

Note thebiggest disappoint was Hearst's Castle in San Simeon, the "getaway" of William Randolph Hearst. Gaudy with neither architectural value or knickknacks bought for his mistress. My brother gave it the best review I've ever read: "Proof that all the money in the worse can't buy good taste."

Thank you for visiting - ❤ with gratitude! Fave if you like it, add comments below, like the Facebook page, order beautiful HDR prints at qualityHDR.com.

My hometown Schuders in the Swiss Alps greeted me like this when I woke up this morning. We had some fresh snow last night. It's a good feeling to be back at my 82 year old mom's home.

The Schuders village with just 30 people is located higher up in the mountains of Graubünden, a canton in eastern Switzerland. From Wikipedia: Graubünden is known for its dramatic Alpine scenery and winter sports. St. Moritz, an upscale resort town and Winter Olympics host in 1928 and 1948, offers ski runs, an outdoor ice rink and ski jumping. Davos, home to the annual World Economic Forum, is also popular for skiing and hiking. The Engadin Valley has traditional whitewashed houses decorated with sgraffito plasterwork.

I processed a soft and a paintery HDR photo from three RAW exposures, merged them selectively, and carefully adjusted the curves.

-- © Peter Thoeny, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0, HDR, 3 RAW exposures, NEX-6, _DSC0493_4_5_hdr3sof3pai1c

Angels Landing, Zion National Park, Utah.

Better on Black

Original and other sizes

This image is part of my Southwest set.

Here's another one from the vault.

One of the most iconic hikes in the American Southwest, Angels Landing is famous for its dramatic exposure, chain-assisted summit push, and breathtaking views of Zion Canyon.

From the summit, you get a 360-degree panorama of Zion Canyon - the Virgin River snaking below, the Great White Throne, Cathedral Mountain, and the canyon walls in every direction. Widely considered one of the best views in all of U.S. national parks.

This is a panorama, a stitch of two images made with a Nikon D300.

DSC_5055 Pano

The Reinefjord curves into a quiet, heart-shaped mirror, reflecting drifting clouds and jagged peaks as Reine’s red cabins rest gently within the vast Lofoten landscape.

Reine often cited as the most beautiful village in Norway, is a postcard-perfect fishing community located on the island of Moskenesøya in the Lofoten archipelago. Nestled above the Arctic Circle, it is famous for its dramatic scenery where jagged granite peaks rise directly from sapphire-hued fjords.

♥ Thank you very much for your visits, faves, and kind comments ♥

Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Itsukushima_Shrine:

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社, Itsukushima-jinja) is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi, in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan, accessible from the mainland by ferry at Miyajimaguchi Station. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.

The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine, the sacred peaks of Mount Misen, extensive forests, and its ocean view. The shrine complex itself consists of two main buildings: the Honsha shrine and the Sessha Marodo-jinja, as well as 17 other different buildings and structures that help to distinguish it.

Excerpt from itsukushimajinja.jp/en/route.html:

Asazaya

Asazaya is located where the East Corridor turns to the right. This hall, thatched with cypress bark, was used as a meeting place by Shinto and Buddhist priests. The architectural style is said to date from the Kamakura period (1185-1333).

Marodo Shrine

Marodo Shrine (shrine for guest deities) is the primary auxiliary shrine of Itsukushima Shrine. All ceremonies at Itsukushima Shrine start here. Like the Main Shrine, Marodo Shrine consists of a honden (main hall), heiden (offering hall), haiden (worship hall) and Haraiden (purification hall). This shine has retained its old architectural style as it has needed less repair work than other structures. The stepped eaves of the haraiden and the planks around the verandah for protection against waves are unique features.

East Corridor

The corridors are 3.9 meters wide and about 270 meters long. The distance between the pillars is about 2.4 meters. There are eight floorboards between the pillars and small spaces between the floorboards.