Open Theme nominee

My life was always filled with scientific concepts, meticulous observations of our world, a busy life of achievements, and responsibilities. For anyone such a life calls for a respite, and winter in the countryside has always slowed me down. I was conceived in winter, and my family’s roots are in the countryside and go back to the 17th century. This series of winter scenes aims to offer people a respite from day-to-day stress as it does for me. For the many Quebecois who belong to this land for several generations, it also draws us back to our modest family roots and rural souvenirs.
Focusing on winter scenes that are minimalist and quasi-monochromatic brings me serenity and a sense of purity. I see snow hiding unnecessary details and textures, helping me to focus on the essential shapes. I see the vegetation that has lost its colors, I feel the low sun behind the grey clouds, I love the tenderness of the soft light and low contrast which all help me to become more mindful to the present moment.

Yvan Bedard is a fine art landscape photographer. Born and living near Quebec City, Canada, he is a former successful university researcher in geospatial data engineering, author, and international lecturer, and has received several scientific awards. In 2014, his artistic passion dominating his scientific passion, he decided to devote himself professionally to fine art photography. He is a self-taught photographer who has undergone advanced training in Canada, the UK, and the USA with some of the best photographers and artists. He went digital as soon as 2003 and got involved in fine art prints in 2009. He explored several regions in Quebec, Canada, Unites-States, Europe, and other parts of the world. A permanent artist in art galleries since 2014 (Canada, USA, Australia, India), he participated in more than forty solo and group exhibitions in Canada and other countries. He has received more than 75 photography awards in international competitions and has been interviewed by media in Canada, France, Japan, the UK, Russia, and the USA. His works are published in magazines and books worldwide, and they can be seen in public and private collections in over twenty countries.