The Erie Maritime Museum invites you to experience “Life onboard Niagara”, a new exhibit of photographs now on display throughout the museum’s first floor. The public is invited to a free opening reception on Thursday, August 12, from 5:00 until 7:30 p.m.
The photographs are the work of Dennis O’Leary and Erie’s own John Baker. While both men have different styles, they share a common perspective, as both have sailed onboard Niagara as trainees. As crewmembers they’ve had opportunities to record the experience of day-to-day life onboard that most people don’t see on a single day sail.
O’Leary’s photos were taken while on a round trip to Montreal in July and August of 2009. He traveled across Lake Erie, through the Welland Canal Locks, along Lake Ontario and through the Thousand Islands to Montreal. Baker’s photos “round out” the experience, as, in addition to sailing, he is available throughout the year in Erie to document ship’s maintenance and crew training. While many images document the hard and seemingly never-ending work needed to sail a tall ship, others capture the camaraderie, quiet personal moments, and breath-taking views that can only be seen from aloft.
The exhibit is sponsored in part by VanTuil Photo and Imaging Center and Giardina Fine Art, and will be on display through December 4, 2010.