Prairie Sunset: A Story of Change
Available now is the new historical hardcover photography book, "Prairie Sunset: A Story of Change" by Dion Manastyrski, printed and bound in Canada by Friesens, one of the finest bookmakers in the world. The book displays over 100 photos taken by the author of old abandoned farmhouses, barns, machinery, and other artifacts from a vanishing way of life. The book also contains 50 historical photos and notes from government archives, to illustrate the past way of life of the rural prairies. Throughout the book are the quoted words of 70 people, collectively telling a story about the past 100 years in the rural prairies. More info about the book and author: www.prairiesunset.ca In 2003, Dion Manastyrski began work on a project to photograph abandoned artifacts in the Canadian prairies. These old homes, barns, schools, and churches were left behind from an earlier time, when the small family farm was at the heart of rural life on the prairies: neighbours within walking distance, vibrant small towns, and a rich sense of community. He also interviewed over 70 people, and asked, "What can you tell me about rural life several decades ago, and about how things have changed?" The 240 page, fine-art, hardcover book is filled with photos and personal, heartfelt anecdotes about many aspects of life beginning in the pioneer years, and covering a span of about 100 years. Within their words, the book also raises questions about what has been lost or gained during the rapid change. The author describes, "In my search for understanding as I roamed the homesteads of a vanishing era, I photographed the abandoned structures, and talked to people of the prairies. Collectively, they have a remarkable story to tell, and I would like to share this with you." Dion Manastyrski has been photographing professionally for over 20 years. He grew up on a family farm in Saskatchewan, has lived in the three prairie provinces, and now resides in Victoria, British Columbia.