We are delighted that Girts has recently come on board to share some of his stunning photographs and his poetic moments.

In his own words -

’My name is Girts. I am Ventish, born and bread in Ventspils, an old port town by the Baltic sea in Latvia. Stubborn and rough around edges, as are many of us. It is because of the stormy weather. The sea and surrounding evergreen pine forests means a lot to me. It is a great source of joy, friendships, reflection, tranquillity and inspiration. For locals it is a part of our culture, a big part of life.

Ever since I was little, my parents encouraged me to appreciate nature and we spent many times together in the wilds. I learnt how to identify birds and wildlife and my whole life I have felt at ease in such surroundings. I love stillness, peace and harmony, and this encouraged me to pay more attention to my surroundings.

From an early age, I have loved photography. In my very late teenage years I also discovered prose, those little short deep and very meaningful poems which make me slow down and reflect... like these lines from William Blake:

"To see a world in a grain of sand and a heaven in a wildflower."

Sometimes I write my own prose, and take photos.

I have brought them here to Carry Forth Tradition and I hope they will inspire you to share your special moments, too.’