Award-winning photographer Peter Wnek explores the “Soul of the Landscape” in his upcoming exhibition of fine art photography at the Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek in Chester. The exhibit is on display now through July 28, with an Artist Reception on Sunday, June 7, 4-7 p.m.

Wnek’s photographs often reveal the story of the landscape – the intrinsic cycles of nature. With a focus on local scenes, “Soul of the Landscape” speaks to the beauty of the coastal vistas and woodland spaces that are unique to Connecticut. He has long been inspired by the purity and innocence of the American landscape as portrayed by the 19th century Hudson River painters. “I strive for that same warm light, the luminous or stormy skies, to invoke a charm or a mood,” he explains.

Featured in this exhibit is Silver Glade, an image of trees on a ridge near Meriden, which recently won the Salmagundi Club of NYC’s 2015 “Henry O’Connor Award” for excellence, portraying the gentler, quieter landscape of New England.

Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek is located at 55 East Kings Highway in Chester. For more information on this exhibit, call (860) 526-8920. For more information about Peter Wnek, visit www.PeterWnekPhoto.com.

CAP: In his photograph “Whispers of the Past,” Peter Wnek captures the breathtaking view along the Connecticut River in Haddam.