GARY GRUBER
Winged Whispers

Photographer Gary Gruber turned his backyard into a thriving bird sanctuary and a stage for art, capturing breathtaking portraits of finches, sparrows, doves, and hummingbirds. What began as a simple routine of scattering seed each evening grew into a relationship of trust and patience with his feathered visitors, who now seem to “pose” for his lens. Gruber’s images go beyond traditional wildlife photography, showcasing the individuality, humor, and grace of these birds. From bold hummingbirds mid-mating dance to serene doves in quiet repose, each photo reflects the beauty and personality of his subjects. His work invites viewers to pause, observe, and reconnect with the natural world. “Look closer,” Gruber reflects, “because the birds are showing us who they are, if we take the time to see.”

Gary Gruber began photographing at age six and had his first exhibit at sixteen. After switching from pre-med to photography at Syracuse University, he eventually landed in California in the early ’70s. He became the lead photographer for a Palm Springs public relations firm, where the desert’s surreal social landscape and weekly trips to L.A. fueled his love of street photography. Influenced by Cartier-Bresson, Gruber captures candid, layered moments, frequently in black and white. His work, rooted in both darkroom and digital practices, offers emotionally rich and often satirical glimpses into everyday life, both observed and experienced.  View more photography by Gary Gruber here >>