| Mar 08, 2023


For Amy Kay, birding and photography are linked together, and her interest in both began simultaneously.

It began about 20 years ago with an Osprey nest near Mississagagon Lake. She had just acquired a new camera and spent hours observing the nest along with other songbirds in the area. As a self-taught photographer, she found bird photography challenging and enjoyed observing and being along side nature. Although, birds in particular, have always remained her favourite subject.

Over the years, some of her bird photos have appeared in Canadian Geographic, Ontario Birds and the National Audubon Society, among other publications. Many of the photos that she displays in her gallery, The Tweet Boutique in Cloyne, were taken close to the home she shares with her husband Brian near Mazinaw Lake, although she also travels throughout Ontario in search of bird species. From years of observing birds in the wild, she has acquired an understanding of bird behaviour and their habitats allowing her to capture them from unique angles, stunning poses and soft backgrounds.

Just like her photos, getting the store open took some time, and patience.

The property, at the northeast corner of Hwy.41 and Road 506, was a former realtor’s office for many years. The location was perfect for a gallery as well as the unique landscape of the area as a backdrop for a nature store.

Although the property had been vacant for a number of years, Brian and Amy were finally able to acquire it in the spring of 2021. Brian, a general contractor had renovated the office into a warm, bright space with natural lighting, a coffered ceiling, and a cozy fireplace to add to the charm of the gallery.

“The timing was perfect. Our children were both heading off to university, and I suddenly had time to concentrate on a gallery and my photography full time”, she said.

Some of Amy's favourite images are printed in the gallery on fine art paper, canvas or acrylic and are also available for custom sizing and mediums. In addition, the boutique curates fine art from across Canada all with a consistent aesthetic sensibility that compliments the photos and the decor and layout of the space.

The boutique also carries unique bird feeders, high quality seed blends, garden decor, and gifts making it the go-to destination for birders, nature lovers, photography fans, and anyone looking for a special gift item.

The Tweet Boutique is currently open from 10am-4pm, Wednesday to Sunday but hours will be adjusted for the upcoming summer season. For additional information regarding Amy’s fine art prints, go to TheTweetBoutique.com or call 613-336-0200.

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