Hidden deep in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the Cataloochee Valley. Similar in ways to Cades Cove, it was settled in the early 1800s and the property was taken with the creation of the national park in the 1930s. The valley is now most noted for the elk herd drawing tourists, particularly during the fall rut.
Pews in Palmer Chapel
Religion was a major part of the lives of the residents with several churches in the valley. These images are of the Palmer Chapel Methodist Church. Nondescript architecturally, I placed my camera very low in the fall leaf clutter to add color and to hopefully lead the viewers eyes up to the subject. In the second image, I liked the defused outdoor lighting on the pews leading to the window. Condensation on the glass blurred the outside view and the visitors walking by.
Cataloochee Valley is a visit well worth the effort but be prepared for the winding, narrow and unpaved roads.
Photographer Chris and painter Robin Rohwer each week share a painting or photograph that captured their interest in hopes that it will also capture yours. They have a small studio and gallery in the Phoenix Building at 418 South Gay Street where you can stop and see their work. Their website is www.ChristopherRobinArts.com. All works are copyright protected.