The beauty and science of preserving forage grasses is depicted in an exhibit opening on Sept. 3 in Creemore’s historic Log Cabin.
Local documentary photographer Jim Stacey has assembled a collection of images which along with text panels explain our relationship with a much overlooked agricultural ingredient – hay. “Many people see a hayfield as an unremarkable piece of the rural landscape,” says Stacey, “but in fact it is what keeps our beef, dairy cows, sheep, goats and horses, fed all winter. That’s over seven million animals across Canada.”
Stacey’s photos follow hay through the seasons as it grows, is cut, baled, stored and finally fed. “There’s beauty in it – especially when you have a sense of the process.”
This project is both an homage to all the farmers across the country and an educational project for city-folk.
“We’re so close to the land here in Creemore, and yet I don’t think we give the land or the farmers that work it that much thought,” he says.
The exhibition, which includes over 20 pieces, can be viewed at the Creemore Log Cabin (at the corner of Library Street at Caroline Street) from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 3 and Saturday, Sept. 10. Stacey will be on hand both days to welcome visitors.
Stacey has been part of the local arts community for the past ten years as an exhibiting artist, gallery operator and volunteer and is the past Chair of the Creemore Festival of the arts.