If you pick up a 2011 Vermont Life Calendar this coming year, you'll see that the work of award-winning photographer Kurt Budliger, of Middlesex, was chosen for the cover. Budliger is a frequent contributor to both Vermont Life and Vermont Magazine. He has shown at Stowe's Helen Day Art Center, and his work has drawn national notice, scoring an honorable mention in the prestigious International Conservation Photography Awards exhibit at the Burke Museum in Seattle, Washington. These things tell you something about the standout allure of his images of the natural world and Vermont landscapes in particular. The Blinking Light Gallery will present an exhibit of Budliger's work titled "Light on the Land: Autumn Selections" through the month of September. Meet and chat with Kurt at a reception for the artist to be held Saturday, Sept. 11 from 4-6 pm. (Enjoy Plainfield's Old Home Days celebration occurring the same day.)
Budliger studied environmental sciences in college, which paired well with his passions for backcountry hiking and photography. For a time he taught science to middle school students in Central Vermont. "As an environmental educator," he said, "I saw a lot of power in the use of imagery to inspire others to think about preserving the natural world." Budliger contributes 1% of his profits to worthy environmental groups through the funnel organization known as "1% for The Planet." Notably, Budliger was the first Vermont business to do so. (The corporate office of "1% for The Planet," established by Patagonia outdoor gear founder and president Yvon Chouinard, is located in Waitsfield, Vermont.)
Budliger currently teaches two levels of digital photography at Community College of Vermont. He holds private workshops and operates a photography business (www.kurtbudligerphotography.com) specializing in outdoor and landscape photography in Vermont and New England, as well as creative portraiture and wedding photojournalism.
The Blinking Light Gallery is a fine art and fun gift shop located on Main St. just off Route 2 in the village of Plainfield, Vermont. Hours are usually Thursdays from 2 to 6 P.M., and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 to 6 P.M. For more gallery information: www.blinkinglightgallery.com 802-454-0141.
Image: Portrait of Kurt Budliger by Mitch Moraski
