Renowned Wildlife Photographer To Open Exhibit in Taneytown

Written By Patricia Bianca

Internationally renowned wildlife photographer Michael L. Smith will open an exhibition of his work at the Taneytown History Museum on Saturday, May 13, 2006, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the museum’s second-floor gallery.

Smith’s photographs have appeared in numerous publications, including National Geographic Magazine’s “Song of Hope for the Bluebird,” published in 1977, and “Osprey Populations Soar to Old Heights,” published in 1990. His work has also been featured prominently in several books, covers, advertisements, posters and calendars. But it was a portrait of one cranky critter that propelled him to prominence in his profession.

His picture, “The Mad Bluebird” has become one of the most recognized and widely purchased bird photographs in the world. Originally published on the cover of a National Geographic brochure advertising the book,“Wonders of Birds,” the photo, according to Smith, has sold more than 121,000 copies as a custom made, signed print and more than 300,000 as stained glass pieces made by Glassmasters of Richmond, Virginia.

In addition, more than 15 gift items, including a hand-painted sculpture, have been made using the photograph. The items can be found in retail stores and catalogs throughout the United States.

Smith’s fame is built on a lifelong relationship with wildlife, mostly birds. For more than 41 years, he has studied the creatures with a keen eye and what he characterizes as a “deep appreciation of the birds’ intelligence.”

He exhibits and sells his photographs at wildlife festivals throughout the East Coast, taking top honors at many. His work is also on permanent display at several galleries in the Maryland and Washington, D.C. areas. Smith lectures extensively on the subject of wildlife photography for the Hasselblad Camera Company.

The Michael L. Smith exhibition at the Taneytown History Museum was originally scheduled to coincide with Taneytown’s Artscape Festival. Although the festival has been postponed until sometime next fall, the Taneytown History Museum has confirmed that Smith will indeed be appearing at the museum on May 13, as scheduled.

The Taneytown History Museum is located at 24 East Baltimore Street in Historic Downtown Taneytown. The museum, which was established by the Taneytown Chamber of Commerce, houses a delightful and constantly changing display that gives visitors an intimate glimpse into the daily life of the community. The museum is regularly open on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tours are available by appointment. Admission is free.

The Smith exhibition will remain at the museum for the next few months, but the photographer’s presence is slated for one day only.