Niagara-on-the-Lake’s agricultural landscape is often celebrated for its vineyards, orchards, farms and wineries. But behind those familiar sights is a diverse community of people whose work gives the region its character — and now their faces are taking centre stage.

“FACE IT! Portraits of the Harvest,” a solo exhibition by Niagara-on-the-Lake portrait artist Nancy Wardle, brings those people into focus at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, where the exhibition runs through Aug. 29.

The exhibition features portraits of growers, vineyard workers, winemakers and a brewmaster, highlighting the people whose work contributes to Niagara’s agricultural and wine-growing industries.

The artist says she was inspired by the realization that while the region’s vineyards, orchards, farms and wineries she and others are surrounded by are often celebrated, the people who keep them running a less visible.

“Through portraiture, I wanted to bring greater visibility to the growers, vineyard workers, winemakers, and brewmaster whose efforts help shape the character and success of our region,” she said in a media release.

Wardle said the portraits are intended to capture more than physical likenesses, instead reflecting the character, resilience and dedication of the people behind Niagara’s farms, vineyards and wineries.

The project was supported by Jill Troyer, whom Wardle credits with making introductions and providing encouragement. Photographer Don Reynolds also contributed reference photographs that inspired many of the paintings.

An opening reception for the exhibition will be held Sunday, Aug. 9, from 2 to 4 p.m. Wardle will speak about her work at 2:30 p.m.

The reception will include refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artist.

Admission to the exhibition and reception is free and everyone is welcome.