These shots are... outstanding

For three and a half weeks this summer, photographer Darryl Baird was the artist-in-residence at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. The photographs he captured during his time in residence are now the subject of a special exhibit at the Newport Performing Arts Center, starting Wednesday, Nov. 1.

An opening reception will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 1 from 5:30 to 7 pm. Wine and light refreshments will be served and Baird will speak at 6 pm.

Baird's career as a photographer and educator spans more than 50 years, and his work is included in collections at the Detroit Institute of Art, the Museum of Fine Art in Houston and the University of Michigan Museum of Art in Ann Arbor. Now retired, he was excited to have been chosen for the residency.

“To live on the edge of land's intersection with the sea is a joy and a formidable subject that keeps me alert, touches my soul and satisfies my desire to capture the primordial exchange of nature's forces as no other landscape has,” he said. “I am humbled and inspired by this place.”

National Conservation Lands are designated to conserve special features and provide exceptional opportunities for recreation and scientific research. While in residence, Baird worked to develop creative products to help promote public stewardship of the area’s unique natural and cultural resources. 

"I was impressed by Darryl's presentation at Yaquina Head over the summer, and feel privileged that we can offer the public an opportunity to hear him speak about his photography," said Chasse Davidson, director of the Newport Visual Arts Center. "His extensive background in both photography and education offers the observer a technical glimpse into what goes into fine art photography. It’s so much more than the point and shoot of a cell phone. I encourage all those interested in photography to join us, not only to hear Darryl speak, but also to witness his work firsthand."

The exhibits will run through January 21 and can be viewed from 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesday through Friday, at the Olive Street Gallery, located inside the Newport Performing Arts Center, at 777 W Olive Street.

For more information, go to coastarts.org or call 541-265-2787.