I remember trips my family made each year to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park while I was still a young boy from central Maine. Excitement and adventure awaited us each year. We would bring food and then buy fresh lobster and steamers in Trenton for a wonderful feast at the picnic area on Thompson Island before crossing onto Mount Desert Island. There were at least three generations of relatives and the day spent on the coast together created everlasting memories. We played games in the grass and walked bare footed across the seaweed and rocks. It's amazing how long the smell of the air stays with you.

Then, with a full and satisfied belly, we drove into the park and gorged our senses further with sights, sounds, and smells that left us not wanting. Acadia is a place that calls upon those with a depth of soulfulness and spirit. It is a place of raw beauty and introspection.

Through my life and travels, I always longed to return, if even for a moment. And, even more so, I was driven to express the words and visions that stayed with me over the years. I hope to retell this story I call AcadiaMagic, using inspired photography and the written word, for those that remember, and for those who are drawn to experience it for the first time.

Acadia National Park provides us with a compass that points the way to our souls. So much of our lives rushes by in a blur until we slow up to pause and reflect. For me, sojourning with nature, camera and pen in hand, has provided a balance. Here, I hope to provide some enjoyment, discovery and internal warmth to your life as well.

Greg A. Hartford

greg@AcadiaMagic.com

Greg A. Hartford, the oldest of seven children, was born in Bangor, Maine, and raised in the small central Maine town of Dexter. His original interest was in fine art - specializing in pastels and portraits. Music was also a passion and its rhythmic influence can be seen in several of the images and verse. Greg moved to Portland, Maine, and then to Florida for several years where he began and managed the graphics, design, & print department for what was then the Official Cruise Line of Walt Disney World. While in Florida, he also taught a photography class in the educational wing of a Melbourne museum and lectured on the creative photography process. His work has won numerous awards and has been seen in magazines, newspapers, advertising pieces, galleries, one man shows, and in the movie "Welcome to Mooseport" starring Gene Hackman and Ray Romano. Greg's first book titled "Best of Bar Harbor," was published in May 2009 by Down East Books. Warmth with depth and a reflective quality are hallmarks of his creations. If you have enjoyed this web site, please let Greg know through the email link provided.

greg@AcadiaMagic.com

Click here to view one of Greg's earlier paintings

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