Bidwell Park in Winter

March through September 2005

 by Marion Bronson

An exhibition mounted by Avenue 9 Gallery at

Chico Creek Nature Center, 1968 E. 8th St., Chico, CA 95928

Artist's Statement

Bidwell Park in Winter is a photographic exploration of the special beauty of Lower Bidwell Park when it is at its bleakest. In the winter months the Park is a stark, bare, monochromatic landscape, but when studied closely, it offers a rewarding experience with rich possibilities for photographs. The barrenness of winter emphasizes the dense woods and makes visible the tangles of branches and chaotic growth of vines. I like the park best on cold misty days when it is almost deserted and one can enjoy the solitude of a miniature wilderness. The only bright colors in this landscape are a few berries and some patches of brilliant green moss-- treasured finds for photographers.

The pictures in this series were all taken in Lower Bidwell Park near paved or established paths. I try to take pictures from vantage points that are accessible to almost everybody. I use moderately priced digital equipment for photographing and printing.

Avenue 9 Gallery helped to organize this exhibition as a contribution to the Bidwell Park Centennial Celebration. For more information on Marion Bronson's photographs, call the gallery at 530-879-1821.