Hibernal Reflection

Trenton Edwards, M2, Class of 2025

Soon, our northern hemisphere will enter into Winter. The sun sets earlier and its warmth fades, sending trees, bears, and countless others into hibernation. In doing so, these creatures can recover from a year’s worth of wear and tear and rest in anticipation of Spring’s growth. As we too retreat indoors, we are also given a chance to look inward; an opportunity to reevaluate our relationship with others, with nature, and with ourself. Winter provides space to think about what has been left behind and what lays ahead. It gives us a chance to be more intentional about those we spend time with, and to witness those who choose to spend their time with us. Though this season may evoke feelings of loss and isolation, it is time spent alone which allows for reflection and growth. As we approach our annual chrysalis, may we put in the work necessary to emerge reborn.

Picnic Under the Weeping Willow

Sricharan Yadali, M2, Class of 2025

Taken at Loose Park, Kansas City. To me, this photograph represents a scene of pure serenity. I am particularly drawn to capturing scenes that place people in harmony and at ease with their surroundings, whether that be in nature or in the urban core of the city. I very much enjoy using film to instill an almost meditative, intentional focus to my photography. I use it to achieve a dream-like quality, like that of recalling a fond memory. I made this photograph using Fuji Superia 400 film, metered at 200 ISO, though my trusty Konica Hexar AF with 35 mm f/2 lens.

A Gardener’s Delightful Season

Tuqa Asedi, M2, Class of 2025

I started gardening a couple years ago after I decided to finally pursue my dream of having a rose garden. The rose garden is still in progress, but I have had so much fun along the way. This year, I started taking photos of the flowers that I grew. It was a productive year; I had so many beautiful Zéphirine Drouhin rose blooms that I made delicious rose jam for my family! My Stargazer Lilies made a stunning and fragrant centerpiece on the coffee table. Some of my Zinnia seedlings died from the heat wave, some were eaten by bunnies, but the ones that survived had bright, vibrant colors. I bought a new bare-root climbing rose in the spring, and I was pleasantly surprised to see it bloom this year, its first year, which can be uncommon. I also saw a hummingbird drink out of my Petunia basket on multiple occasions. I have never seen one in real life and I could not contain my excitement! Other beautiful creatures that I got to see were different types of birds, a hummingbird hawk moth, and a neon-green praying mantis that lived on my Perfume Delight rose. Overall, it was a joyful experience and I am super excited for the next season. But for now, I am busy collecting the fallen autumn leaves to make food for next year’s flowers.

Coming of Spring

Colette Worcester, G1-P3