Photographer Maura Davies
Bio: Maura Davies is a librarian and amateur photographer. She is a native Alabamian, from a family with a variety of creative and artistic talents. Maura became interested in photography as a teen and has been playing with cameras ever since. She took several photography classes as part of her college art major, and continues to learn informally through various sources, including the Trussville Photographers Club and Birmingham School of Photography.
Artist statement: After many years living and working in Leeds and Trussville, I recently relocated to Georgia. Most of the photographs in this collection were taken in the Birmingham area, with a few also from Huntsville and Georgia. These images represent a combination of my fascination with plants (especially natives!), local history, and photography. I especially enjoy photographing subjects in nature, so I am grateful for public gardens and parks like Aldridge Gardens.
It has been natural for me to incorporate photography with other interests and experiences...kids activities (marching band, soccer, basketball, etc.), work (documenting library events), exploring local history, hiking, and of course, gardening. I’m the kind of person who can’t leave home without the camera (in spite of cell phone camera availability). Photography has been a way for me to share the visual beauty of the things that I am inspired by and find joy in. Often these are scenes that may not be noticed until you stop, change your vantage point, and explore. I am definitely a slow hiker!
While photographing native plants I have been motivated to learn more about them…identification, ecosystem relationships, life cycle, etc. In a similar vein, taking photos of old buildings has spurred an interest in local history. What begins with strictly visual appeal often leads to further research, and connection with others who are knowledgeable and passionate about the same subjects. A side benefit to photography has been the formation of friendships with other hobbyists, in the realms of photography, nature, and history.
In sharing these pictures, it is my hope that the viewer will be inspired to appreciate the beauty of the world around us and to learn more about the subjects in the photos. I continue to be motivated by the desire to discover, learn, and share.
The show was on exhibit at Aldridge Gardens from January 15th through March 8th of 2024.
An artists reception was held the evening of Thursday, February 8th from 5 to 7 p.m.
While visiting our gallery, be sure to see our special collection of Frank Fleming bronze sculptures, donated by Hoover resident Ken Jackson.
Please call us (205.739.6558) before visiting the gallery to make sure we are not hosting a luncheon or event during the time you plan to visit. The gallery is normally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
A selection of work from the exhibit is shown in the photos below.
AmFirst is Aldridge Gardens' Arts and Sculpture Corporate Sponsor
