Colorful images of Sumatran tigers, African gorillas, exotic birds and fancy butterflies are the newest additions to Mayor James J. Fiorentini’s City Hall office.
The nature-inspired photographs are courtesy of Haverhill’s Lynnette Fortin – the mayor’s March Artist of the Month.
Fortin, a professional photographer and 2003 graduate of New York Institute of Photography, is the third local artist showcased this year in the mayor’s new Artist of the Month series.
“My goal for nearly two decades has been to create works of enduring beauty and images that inform the soul and convey my deep connection with all God’s creation,” said Fortin, who grew up in Stonington and Mystic, Connecticut.
“I am honored to have my photographs displayed in the mayor’s office,” she added. “I was so happy when the mayor asked me.”
Fortin said her interest in photography began early in life, when her father gave her old brownie camera when she was 10 years old.
“My hope and dream is that my photographs uplift and inspire those who feel hopeless and discouraged, and to educate people about the importance of conservation,” Fortin said.
Fortin was also an Interpretive Specialist at the Monarch Program in California where she taught people of all ages “The Life Cycle of the Butterfly.”
In addition to in the mayor’s office, Fortin hopes to soon showcase her artwork on a website she is developing at www.LynnetteFortinPhotography.com.
Other local artists highlighted by the mayor this year includes Steven C. Perry and Katherine LaRosa.
Mayor Jim Fiorentini's Blog 