The Mountlake Terrace Arts Commission presents the Phil McCrain Exhibit at the Mountlake Terrace Library, 23300 58th Avenue West. McCrain’s work combines his background of technical experience with a naturalist’s passion for the world of birds, which he describes as “natures flying jewels.” The result is an inspiring collection of masterful photographs showcasing the beauty and wonder of the spectacular variety in the realm of birds.

A Northwest native, McCrain has spent a lifetime exploring our areas mountains, lakes, streams and beaches. He approaches his work as a naturalist, artist, and technician. Knowing the habitats and habits of the birds is essential to capturing their personality and essence. Finding locations with access to the birds with minimal disturbance is as much a part of the process as capturing and printing the image. It means looking for opportunities everywhere—neighborhoods, parks, and mountain trails.

McCrain explains, “I strive to show a bird in its element and reveal the beauty and the behavior that personifies each bird. Sometimes this means waiting for hours until the bird is in the light and not the bushes, sometimes it means going back again and again for weeks or years.”

McCrain’s work has been shown in galleries in Snohomish and Monroe as well as in the Arts of the Terrace Art Show. He has participated in juried art festivals throughout the Northwest and has pieces hanging in homes across the country. He currently lives in the Seattle area with his wife and creative partner, Jody.

The show runs through January 31 at the Mountlake Terrace Library, Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.