John M. Rockwood Artist Statement:
As a wildlife photographer, videographer, authorand lecturer, my mission is to combine these talents to capture rarely viewed wildlife behaviors and present them in an interesting and detailed way. My audiencesleave with new found knowledge, respect and fascinationfor the featured wildlife, they feel as if they had been there with me in the woods or in my kayak, up close and personal.
If picked as the 2017 Curious George Cottage Artist it would give me the opportunity to educate visitors to Waterville Valley from around the world, throughthe art of photography and my multi-media presentationsabout our common loons, their unique lives and disseminate information about how the public can help protect these living dinosaurs. My third presentation if time permits, shares up close photos and videos of New England wildlife.
As the 2017 Curious George Cottage Artist,I would plan to work on my upcoming E-book and DVD on loon twins Wiggles and Waggles. I would also spend time photographing the wildlife found in the Waterville Valley area and preparing the photos for publication on variousFacebook groups to bring attention to the Curious George Cottage Artist Residency program and promote the Public Programs I would be giving. I would also be editing Loon photos for my 2018 Loon calendar.
Similar to the philosophy of Margret And H.A. Rey, I strive to use my photography, videos and lectures to educate the public, on how they can help the wildlife around them through simple actions, for loons, it would be picking up discarded fishing line and using non-lead sinkers.
I can bring numerous framed wildlife photos and photo canvases for exhibit and sale at the Rey Center Art Center.
I would also bring and sign my non-fiction Loon book "Adventures With Grapenut" to create more revenue for the Rey Center and to spread more knowledge about Loons.
Having lectured and exhibited at the Rey Center in February and March of 2010, I look forward to the chance of returning as the 2017 Curious George Cottage ArtistResident with all new photos and multi-media lectures.