One of my current projects is to create abstract photographs of my hometown of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada. With abstract photographs, we try to reflect the mood or emotions or qualities of a place. Each Tuesday, I’ll present a new image from the project.
Ice Sculpture
The Magic and Beauty of Ice
There is no place I’d rather be than Niagara-on-the-Lake in the summertime. It’s one of the most beautiful (and comfortable) places on earth. Winters have their own magic too, but they are long. Before I bid adieu to the long winter we’ve just had, I want to pay homage to ice, which is very important to this area.
Pictures of a frozen Niagara Falls (only 20 minutes away) make their way around the world. During the previous winter, ice caves at nearby Crystal Beach drew visitors from near and far. The freezing temperatures have another benefit in this rich, agricultural area. Frozen grapes make the most delectable icewine. The annual Icewine Festival lasts the entire month of January. And, for two weekends here in Niagara-on-the-Lake, the main shopping street is shut down for icewine tastings, food, and music.
There are ice sculptures, including a gigantic ice bar. The image above is a closeup view through one of the sculptures, which reflects its surroundings.
Read more about: Icewine and The Niagara Icewine Festival
It has a world class theatre series called the Shaw Festival, which draws thousands from April through November.
This town was the first capital of Canada and one of the major battlegrounds for the War of 1812. You can see re-enactments at Fort George. The U.S. counterpart, Fort Niagara, can be seen across the river.
This is one of the best agricultural areas in all of Canada, known for its fruit – grapes especially, and is now home to more than 100 wineries.
What a wonderful ice abstract. I loved reading about how ice-wine is made. My son brought me a bottle of this delectable drink when he came over on one of his visits! Lots of other interesting things to read about Niagara-on-the-Lake. Thank you!
How wonderful – these celebrations of icy winter. And such a gorgeous tribute to winter’s freeze.
Enjoying this series! Had no idea about the Ice Wine festival!