We’re excited to announce that MSC agent Lisa Harris has taken first place in the Black and White category of Selby Gardens' Virtual 45th Annual Juried Photographic Exhibition. Her winning photograph, titled In Harmony with Nature, showcases the beauty of the Guptill House and Lizzie G boat at Historic Spanish Point.
In Harmony with Nature by Lisa Harris
Built in 1901 by Frank and Lizzie Webb Guptill, the Guptill House is a remarkable example of Florida’s rich heritage. Perched atop an ancient shell midden – a mound of shells, tools, and pottery left by early Indigenous people thousands of years ago – the home stands as a beautifully restored example of pioneer craftsmanship featuring original woodwork and period furnishings that capture the spirit of early 20th-century Florida. “I enjoy hiking around this historic site, taking photos,” Lisa shares. “For old structures, I prefer reverting to black and white. It seems to have a way of honoring an era and accenting angles in a way that color could not.” Photography has long been a passion for Lisa. In 2013, she published a coffee table book of Napa Valley wineries. And, Lisa’s talent has been recognized before – in 2023, a photo she submitted to the Venice Gondolier was later entered by the newspaper into a statewide contest. Competing against 142 medium-sized Florida newspapers, Lisa’s photo won First Place in the state. “One of my favorite subjects is sunrise at the beach with interesting clouds. The soft colors and lighting make it my favorite time of day.” The Selby Gardens contest featured five categories: Living Art, Make a Splash, Plant Portraits, Black and White, and The Birds and the Bees. Out of approximately 250 entries, Lisa's photo was selected as the first-place winner in her category. Lisa's winning photograph, along with all other entries in the virtual exhibition, can be viewed online at selby.org or yourobserver.com through September 30th. Congratulations, Lisa, on this well-deserved recognition!
