Edgewater Gallery at The Falls in Middlebury (that’s the one on Mill Street) presents photographs by Jon Olsen in “Stillness,” a solo exhibition on view for the month of September, with an opening reception on Friday, Sept. 14, from 5-7 p.m. This series explores the tranquility of the Vermont winterscape and the serene effects of snow blanketing a spacious landscape.
Olsen has been a photographer for over 30 years. He has a deep understanding of light, color and composition; all the ingredients for a successful photograph. Interestingly, Olsen considers the images he produces to be more found than created. Guided by his artistic eye, Olsen knows where to look and what to focus on to produce thought-provoking and alluring photographs.
Olsen, originally from Massachusetts, first picked up a camera in the 1970’s when he was still in high school. To teach himself the art of photography, Olsen would use the work of other photographers as a reference and to challenge himself to create images of equal quality. Eventually he gained the confidence and expertise to allow his work to become more personal and reflect his own experiences. In college he strayed from his passion in order to earn a degree in political science. As soon as he graduated, however, he returned to photography and never looked back.
Olsen was drawn to the Vermont landscape, which has been a constant source of inspiration throughout his photography career. 
The natural beauty and rich history of farming provides endless subject matter for him. His photos often feature pastoral elements and simple architectural design.
Olsen considers himself a self proclaimed amateur naturalist, and will gladly trek into a field of deep snow in mixed precipitation to capture “the shot.” For him, inclement weather is an opportunity, not an inconvenience.
It’s these hard to find moments, found where few may be looking, that are central to Olsen’s current body of work. As a meditation practitioner with a keen interest in eastern philosophy, Olsen values the spiritual connectivity that can be achieved in calm and quiet moments. In a world that is increasingly chaotic and multidimensional, it can be difficult to find space enough to be still, to refocus and think. Olsen intends for his photographs to stand out against the complexity of modern life, and offer the viewer a chance to pause and enjoy elegant simplicity.
Olsen maintains a studio at his home in Norwich, Vermont, where he lives with his wife and three children.