Hickory – Renowned North Carolina poet Scott Owens, celebrated for his profound and evocative works, proudly announces the release of his 22nd poetry collection, “An Augury of Birds.” This captivating volume is enriched by Clayton “Joe” Young’s photography, marking their third artistic collaboration.
Owens, whose illustrious career spans over four decades, continues to captivate audiences with his keen observations and deeply personal reflections. “An Augury of Birds” is a testament to his enduring passion for birdwatching and ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary through his poetic lens.
In “An Augury of Birds,” Owens’ poems take flight alongside Young’s striking photographs, offering readers an intimate exploration of avian life. On his journey, Owens shares, “Having been a birdwatcher for more than 40 years, I have frequently been inspired to write about the birds I’ve seen. Combined with photos by Joe Young, these poems create a more personal look at many of the birds we often see but take for granted.”
Young is the author of 12 books and an award-winning photographer with a background in photojournalism. His work has been exhibited throughout the United States in solo and juried exhibitions. In May 2015, Young earned an MFA in photography from the Savannah College of Arts and Design. He is the director and senior professor for the Photographic Technology Program at the Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory, NC.
His collaborations with Owens have produced visual symphonies, blending the arts of photography and poetry into cohesive and impactful works. “I loved the challenge of finding something interesting to write about birds that Joe could show in a visual image. Every collaboration with him is a rewarding and unique challenge,” Owens reflects.
“An Augury of Birds” is more than a book; it’s an invitation to see the world anew through the eyes of a seasoned poet and a gifted photographer. It appeals to bird lovers, poetry enthusiasts, photography fans, and anyone who cherishes the beauty of nature.
“An Augury of Birds” is now available for purchase at Taste Full Beans and directly through https://tinyurl.com/AnAuguryOfBirds
Celebrate the launch of “An Augury of Birds” with Scott Owens and Clayton Joe Young at a book launch at Taste Full Beans Coffeehouse and Gallery at 6:15 pm on August 13th as part of the monthly Poetry Hickory calendar. A poetry reading and photography exhibit will also be on October 10th at the SALT Block in Hickory.
