Visio Divina, sacred seeing, is an ancient form of prayer that [is] a powerful method of meditation. Art becomes the sacrament that opens our hearts to the indwelling Spirit of God. The visible makes the invisible present in a palpable way. There may be no better practice of this spiritual discipline, than through the lens of a camera. 

In any conditions, in any place, there is interesting light to be discovered with a camera—light that we might overlook because it seems familiar or commonplace. But the light is there, inviting notice—recognition. 

Seeing interesting textures, shadows, light, and patterns is a learned skill, and like a muscle, grows stronger as we exercise it. A camera has the added benefit of “seeing” things our physical eyes might miss. For example, a camera can “see” an image in a tiny fraction of a second, or over a longer span of time; it can see things that are too dark or too bright for our eyes; it can selectively focus and blur in ways our eyes cannot.  

Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional photographer, or you are passionate about art, join this rural evening workshop to learn and exercise photographic techniques in the wild. Our evening will begin with dinner and a presentation by Barry Sherbeck, an accomplished photographer and visual artist, who will share his insights about discovery and photography. Following the presentation, up 15 participants will be able to participate in a guided photographer tour around the Dottie’s Ranch grounds with Barry.

Gathering Details

Dinner (5:45 – 6:30 PM) — 30 people

Presentation (6:30 – 8:00 PM) — 30 people

Guided photography tour (8:00 PM) — 15 people

Location — Dottie’s Ranch, near the Town of Oregon (20 minutes south of Madison)

Alternative Rain Date — Thursday, June 24  

Cost — $10, includes dinner

About the Artist 

Barry Sherbeck is a visual artist, photographer, filmmaker, writer, and curator, based in Madison, WI. He grew up overseas and has lived and traveled almost half his life in the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. He has worked in visual media communications for 35 years. He currently works as a visual arts freelancer, has two amazing daughters, participates in the local Madison art gallery community, and works with a team to curate the active gallery at Christ Presbyterian Church. He loves being a home chef, listening to music, reading, walking, and writing haiku for “found images.”