Artist’s Inspiration: Bruce Shapka

We asked local artists to create works inspired by John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields for a special juried art show commemorating the centenary of the poem. The submissions we received were incredibly varied, as each artist brought a truly unique perspective to the poem. In this blog series, the artists explain in their own words what motivated their work. See more artist inspiration stories here.

Bruce Shapka: “I have seen many images of John McCrae House and Memorial Gardens through three seasons but none in the fourth season, that of winter.

The opportunity arose early in February. A blanket of snow was deposited and the grounds were pristine and unblemished.  The only movement at the McCrae homestead was two fluttering flags. The overall mood of the scene was serenity and solitude.  This is when the image was captured.

If you look carefully there is a poppy in the image.”

Artist Bio: “My first camera was a Kodak box camera. I have since progressed from a simple 35 mm camera to medium format cameras and finally to digital. I have built and used two larger format cameras that use 4×5 and 5×7 sheet film. I have formal training in photography from Sheridan College. I am currently a member of both the Guelph Photographers Guild and of CAPA.”