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Darlene Spell
USA
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"My love of nature came from both of my parents and from the time I was 6 months old I was camping with my family."
Born into an artistic family in St. Louis, Missouri, Darlene’s upbringing was notably shaped by her parents' diverse passions. While her mother possessed a talent for drawing and painting, her father was more inclined towards hunting and fishing. This blend of interests fostered a unique childhood where she learned outdoor activities like shooting guns, fishing, and hunting, thanks to her father's influence. Additionally, her mother's creative skills extended to decorating cakes and creating intricate designs on them, showcasing her artistic talents.
Reaching Out | Color Photography
$200
16 X 20
Photo captured at Morris State Park in Southeast Missouri while hiking one of the park's trails. I just love the way the roots are reaching out of the earth looking like a hand and arm.
Nature played a significant role in her early life, as her parents' love for the outdoors led to family camping trips from the time Darelene was only six months old. These trips mainly centered around Missouri's State Parks and also extended to various locations in Arkansas and Kentucky. Such experiences instilled a deep appreciation for nature that became a defining aspect of her character.
Behind the Ice Curtain | Color Photography
$200
20 X 16
Hiking through Hickory Canyon Conservation Area just West of Ste. Genevieve Missouri, on a Winter's Day. The cave with the massive frozen waterfall was awesome to behold. When I went inside the cave, I looked out to see the marked tree, giving me the perfect title. International Award Winner.
Artistic pursuits were in her genes, with both parents contributing to her creative inclinations. Her mother's initiation into photography began at the age of nine, using a Brownie Box Camera to capture moments. Meanwhile, her father acquired his first camera during his service in the Korean War, which he continued to use during family vacations. This early exposure to photography laid the foundation for the individual's later passion for capturing moments through the lens.
"I was instantly 'in love' with cameras and their ability to capture the moment."
Gradually, Daralene’s interest in photography grew more profound. By 1983, she obtained her first SLR camera, transitioning from using older camera models like the 110 and 120. One of her inspirations was Ansel Adams, whose masterful nature photography left a lasting impression on Darelene.
Rippled | Color Photography
$200
16 X 20
Camping in Sam A Baker State Park near Patterson Missouri and swimming in Big Creek is a yearly outing I look forward to doing. Caught this ripple while in Big Creek showing how clear this spring-fed river is and all the colorful rock from up river.
Horseshoe Lake in Southern Illinois is beautiful year round with cypress trees and many species of wildlife. This photo shows a blue skied February day and the cypress within. National Juried Exhibition entry.
Lake Mirror | Color Photography
$325
24 X 36
Moving into adulthood, Daralene got married in 1987 and subsequently started a family. Relocating from St. Louis to Southeast Missouri in 1989 introduced her to the region's breathtaking natural features. While the responsibilities of raising two children and working occupied much of her time, she still managed to explore conservation areas and state parks with her growing family, passing on her love for nature to the next generation.
"My ability to capture these moments and share them through various publications and exhibitions is a testament to my artistic growth and the impact of my journey."
"As my photographic journey continues, it's clear that my passion for art, nature, and photography will remain a driving force in my life."
Embracing the technological advancements in photography, Darelene upgraded her camera equipment as digital photography emerged. Her commitment to photography was validated when a local frame shop owner, who was married to a professional landscape photographer, praised her work. This recognition encouraged her to take photography more seriously, leading her to participate in first juried exhibition in 2005.
Spring Dreams | Photoshop
$250
20 X 24
Local azalea farm blooming in Spring on a sun-filled day. The Orton Effect was done in photoshop making the result dreamy. Southeast Missouri.
Since that initial juried exhibition, Darelene’s photography journey has been marked by growth and success. She has showcased her work in regional, national, and international exhibitions and earned awards at various levels. Her dedication has also seen her photographs featured in books and magazines, underscoring the impact of her talent and dedication.
Beauty in Nature | Color Photography
$250
20 X 24
Photo taken at Duck Creek Conservation Area in Southeast Missouri. Flora fills the water making this photo almost impressionist style.
The subject of her photography remains focused on the heart of Missouri, capturing the essence of its conservation areas, state parks, and beyond. Her deep connection to the region is evident through her ability to convey its beauty through photographs. Darelene's lens now spans a wider territory, extending to the multi-state area and beyond, as she continues to explore new vistas.
Doe seems to be giving a curtsy and saying hello. Missouri is filled with wildlife and deer are plenty but this one is extremely photogenic. International Award Winner.
A Little Curtsy | Color Photography
$200
20 X 16
"Under my father's guidance, I learned the fundamentals of camera settings and began to explore the art of photography."
Plains Coreopsis | Color Photography
$200
16 X 20
Beautiful wildflowers fill our forests and fields during Spring and Summer. This plains coreopsis is one of the showy beauties. Captured at Maintz Wildlife Area near Oak Ridge Missouri.
In recent times, she has embraced new camera technology, transitioning to the Sony Alpha system and experimenting with various zoom lenses. This transition signifies a new chapter in her artistic journey, promising fresh creative opportunities and avenues for growth.
Great Blue Heron standing on log in swamps of Mingo National Wildlife Refuge near Puxico Missouri. One of my favorite places to drive through and photograph, lots of wildlife and gorgeous landscapes.
King of the Marsh | Color Photography
$200
20 X 16
As the Darelene’s photographic journey unfolds, her passion for art, nature, and photography remains unwavering. Her upbringing, influences, and personal experiences have converged to create a unique artistic trajectory that showcases her profound connection to nature and her dedication to capturing its beauty through the lens.
Adult & Juvenile |Color Photography
$200
16 X 20
Taken in Union County in Southern Illinois, I originally passed the scene and realizing, quickly turned around to capture the adult with 2 juveniles. The one pictured is around 3-4 years old, just getting in its white feathers (fully come in at 5 years of age). There was also a juvenile not pictured in this photo that was around 2-3 years old. I have never seen an adult with its 2 juveniles, to me a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 2023 Photoville NYC juried entry.
"Focusing the lens on Missouri's landscapes, conservation areas, and national parks showcases my connection to the region and its natural beauty."
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