Decades of work by a Muskoka photographer have been recognized by his peers at a national level.
Last month Terry Hrynyk of Gravenhurst was presented with the Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award. The award was established by the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC) in 2002 and commemorates the legacy of the late Yousuf Karsh.
“This award is particularly impactful to me having met the great Canadian photographer, Yousuf Karsh many years ago when I was a student of photography. His ability to tell a story and sculpt light continues to inspire me all these years later,” says Hrynyk. “I’m also honoured to have this recognition from my peers in the Professional Photographers of Canada across the country. It’s been a pivotal organization to encourage and develop my skills as a visual artist.”
Hrynyk’s been a professional photographer in Muskoka for over 30 years with his company Photographic Imagery. He’s also taught photography at Georgian College in Barrie, in the Photography and the Fine Arts programs for over 15 years.
“I’m also a proud father and grandfather and glad to tell anyone who wishes to hear what a great place Muskoka is to live in,” he says.
Hrynyk said he enjoys creating memories for families at their homes or cottages and creating images that connect human stories to the elements of nature.
“I’ve enjoyed creating fine art imagery in the same way,” he says. “Having grown up in northern Ontario, the elements of nature have inspired my imagery. I’m inspired by all that nature has to offer us and see that in its many parts as a reflection of ourselves. Whether I’m capturing a landscape or a portrait there is a strong relationship to the splendour and inspiration the Canadian vista provides.”
Members of the Professional Photographers of Canada can earn “image merits” by demonstrating outstanding photographic ability through annual national image competitions and national accreditation. The Yousuf Karsh Award is presented annually to the member with the highest number of image merits over 4000. The award can be received only once in a career.
The award has been presented 20 times, most recently on March 25, 2024, to Hrynyk. The presentation was made by PPOC Chairperson, Jennifer Gilbert MPA SPA and took place in front of Hrynyk’s students at Georgian College.
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