Catskill Mountain Foundatio - Arts, Education & Sustainable Living

PUBLICATIONS

As Winter’s End Draws Near

March 2002

When the most vigorous of all seasons reaches its final days, those of us who enjoy the glories of winter may feel a mounting tension. It is something like the fourth movement of a symphony when the music reaches its climax; we are thrilled by the consummation experienced in the finale but sad to realize that it will have to come to an end. The difference is that in the back of our minds we know spring is not far behind.

Our cover photograph is a classic. Beautifully composed, the forms make an indelible mark on our minds. Unfortunately this year we haven’t had much snow to enjoy, but the image reminds us of some of the wonders of winter that we can generally count on in our beautiful mountain region. This is truly an image of winter at its best. Our portfolio begins with a striking variation – a stream that winds its way through the woods, flowing towards us, with its snow-covered banks forming an intriguing composition. Then we come to the glistening branches of a towering tree, with the sun transforming the icy coatings into a thousand jewels against a crystal clear sky. Once again we have two double-page spreads. The first shows the criss-crossing of the snow-covered branches in the shade, while the sun peaks through in the distance. The second is a remarkable scene with a giant rock separating a stream into two waterfalls, and snow resting on scattered rocks. We end the portfolio with a rushing waterfall, with the snow seen on the fallen trees lying over the stream and the forest in the background.

They are all compelling images to treasure as we approach the final days of the season.

— David Finn