One of the world’s foremost wildlife photographers, Peter Beard, was found dead not far from his Montauk home after being reported missing for some three weeks.
A pioneering artist in the field of wildlife photography and ecological awareness, Beard was also a celebrity in his own right that has links to many of the top luminaries of the day.
The statement from Beard’s family reads:
“We are all heartbroken by the confirmation of our beloved Peter’s death. We want to express our deep gratitude to the East Hampton police and all who aided in their search, and also to thank the many friends of Peter and our family, who have sent messages of love and support, during these dark days.
Peter was an extraordinary man, who led an exceptional life. He lived life to the fullest. He squeezed every drop out of every day. He was relentless in his passion for nature, [and he was ] unvarnished and unsentimental, but utterly authentic always. He was an intrepid explorer, unfailingly generous, charismatic and discerning. Peter defined what it means to be open; open to new ideas, new encounters, new people, new ways of living and being. Always insatiably curious, he pursued his passions without restraints and perceived reality through a unique lens. Anyone, who spent time in his company, was swept up by his enthusiasm and his energy. He was a pioneering contemporary artist, who was decades ahead of his time in his efforts to sound the alarm about environmental damage. His visual acuity and elemental understanding of the natural environment was fostered by his long stays in the bush and the ‘wild-deer-ness’ he loved and defended. He died where he lived: in nature. We will miss him every day.”
Are you familiar with the work of Peter Beard? What are your thoughts on his passing? Let us know in the comments section below if you like.
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