The 2026 exhibition featured more than 100 photographs from 74 local photographers, with awards recognizing images inspired by the theme “Cultivation.”
The 2026 Russell Township Photo Expo celebrated the work of local photographers on Saturday, September 19, showcasing more than 100 photographs selected from 225 submissions.
Under this year’s theme, “Cultivation,” 74 photographers captured moments and scenes throughout Russell Township, exploring the theme through a variety of artistic perspectives.
A jury composed of Ruth Egue of Voix Visuelle, Leah Iselmoe of Global Affairs Canada and Margo Malboeuf of MASC selected the winning photographs.
The jury considered artistic quality, how effectively each photograph reflected the theme and how it contributed to the overall exhibition. The selected images were recognized for their ability to tell stories, capture meaningful moments and engage viewers.
Five awards were presented across different categories.
Rijker Boulerice received the Best Youth award for Ripples and Reflections, while Paula Brown won Best Portrait for Cultivated Trust. Emily Zufelt received Best Landscape for Cornfire Sky, and Jim McCormick won Best Wildlife for Slug Fest. Lisa Jones received the Most Vibrant award for Monarch Butterfly.
The jury also selected nine photographs for honourable mentions. They included Listen to the Voices by Elizabeth Bahl-Séguin, Words Have Impact by Mégane Bahl-Séguin, Reflet by Émile Ledoux-Deschamps and Pur délice by Laurianne Plante, all in the youth category.
The other honourable mentions went to Tim Bolton-Gowling for Under the Lights, Eric Beauchamp for Dog Days of Summer – Cultivation, Mark Hatherall for Taking Flight, Allie Liko for The Next Generation and Martine St-Jean for The Great Escape.
Outdoor exhibition and public choice
The winning photographs will be added to Russell Township’s outdoor photo exhibition along the recreational trail, beginning at 901 Notre-Dame Street in Embrun.
Each of the five category winners will receive a $422 fee through the Canadian Artists’ Representation/Le Front des artistes canadiens (CARFAC), recognizing their artistic contributions. All 14 award recipients, including the honourable mentions, will also receive a subscription to PhotoEd Magazine.
Visitors to the expo were also invited to vote for their favourite photograph in the People’s Choice category.
Hatherall’s Taking Flight received the most votes, earning the photographer a $50 gift card to Euphie d’ici, located in Embrun beside the outdoor photo exhibition.
Those who missed the event can view all submitted photographs through the Township’s online gallery at www.russell.ca/PhotoClub.
Growing interest in the arts
The Township acknowledged funding support from the Ontario Arts Council and the Government of Ontario, as well as its partnership with the Russell Agricultural Society, which helped make this year’s exhibition possible.
Organizers said participation in the expo continues to grow, reflecting the increasing presence of the arts in Russell Township.
The Township is already looking ahead to the 2027 edition, with next year’s theme expected to be announced in early 2027. Residents are encouraged to continue taking photographs throughout the year in preparation for the next exhibition.
