Painted Bunting on display

Readers lucky enough to be within driving distance of Amherst, Massachusetts, have the opportunity this month to view the work of one of our favorite photographers.

I'm sure you remember our June 2006 issue. Its cover featured a photo of a beautiful Painted Bunting taken by John Van de Graaff.

I first met John in February 2006, at the North American Nature Photography Association summit in Denver, where I had been invited to review portfolios. I always enjoy doing this, but just imagine my delight when John showed me his pictures! I'll never forget it. Only a few months later, his bunting landed on the cover.

According to the Amherst Bulletin, John's cover shot and a flock of his other bird photographs are on display now in a solo show at the Burnett Gallery in Amherst. The exhibition, called "Peregrinations of a Bird Photographer," can be seen until the end of the month. Don't miss it! -- E.M.