Through the Lens of Mike Dougherty: “In Plain Sight”

For July and August, Main Street Gallery is pleased to be showing the wildlife photographs of Dorchester County resident, Mike Dougherty. 

Mike's work focuses on the varied and majestic wildlife found in regional forests, rivers and bays and even in the photographer's own backyard. 

Mike says he really began a deep dive into his craft back in 2021 and his interest in photography has only intensified in the five years since. "I am passionately dedicated to revealing the beauty in subjects that are right in front of us, yet overlooked", he says, "which is exactly what inspired the title of this show, 'In Plain Sight'".

As an employee of the Maryland Park Service, Mike says he sees a myriad of wildlife while working, but since he's focused on his job he rarely brings his camera to work with him. "Working for the Forest Service still helps a lot, though, says the photographer, "because my workday basically doubles as a scouting trip. Spending so much time out there lets me figure out where wildlife hangs out and how the light looks throughout the day. Then I just take what I learned on the clock ahd go back with my camera on my days off or to similar locations to get some shots."

From photographing warblers in the hemlock forest of western Maryland, to snapping shots of insects in his pollinator garden at home, Dougherty says his photography brings the subtle wonders of the natural world into sharp focus.

"In Plain Sight" will premiere at the Gallery at 518 Poplar St. in Cambridge on July 3 and continue through August 30. 

There will be two Artist receptions on Second Saturdays, July 11 and August 8 from 5 to 8 pm. Mike will give a brief talk about his work at the August reception at 6 pm. Both receptions are free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served.

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