Garden photographer John O’Conner is taking an unusual approach to this customary practice, with his Picture Perfect garden tour on Saturday, April 17.
The event, which takes place from 1 to 3 p.m., is a fundraiser to benefit projects in Georgetown, Guyana in South America.
O’Conner has volunteered for the last seven years as a teacher at the School of Nursing, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital and as a counselor at two orphanages in the country.
His garden tour will feature approximately 90 8x10 photographs of his wife Anne’s garden from the 2009 season, placed in approximately the real subjects locations.
“It looks mostly like a weedy field at this season – but nature, and plantings, will gradually transform it,” said O’Conner.
The couple moved to Middle West Pubnico five years ago because of their love for the ocean.
“I grew up in Brooklyn, New York City and missed the ocean when I worked in Hamilton, Ontario, for 25 years. There I was a hospital chaplain and medical school professor,” said O’Conner, who will be going back to Guyana in September for his eighth time.
Prior to his work as a Lutheran pastor, he was with a Roman Catholic missionary group called Maryknoll Fathers.
His work in health care was mostly with children and families who were facing death.
It looks mostly like a weedy field at this season – but nature, and plantings, will gradually transform it. - Garden photographer John O’Conner
“Since I lived to past 50, I wanted to give something to others… and maybe return to the “mission dream” of my youth ... though I have been clear that I am there as a human being rather than a missionary,” said O’Conner.
Visitors during the garden tour at 323 Abbott’s Harbour Road are encouraged to stroll the garden paths and walk the labyrinth.
Donations of $10 or more qualify for a tax-deductible receipt from Guyana Christian Charities Canada.
Rain date is Sunday, April 18. For more info contact 902-762-0274.
