Not long ago, during the coldest months of winter, striking ice formations would appear along the Lake Ontario shoreline, just west of Toronto. Over the past two years, however, nothing of real interest has formed. Global warming at work?

These formations typically developed during prolonged periods of extreme cold combined with strong winds. Waves crashing against the shore would freeze instantly on rocks, trees, and shrubs, creating unusual and compelling shapes. When conditions allowed, a fresh layer of snow would settle on top, transforming the scene even further.

Most times I visited, the shoreline was empty—just the cold, the ice, and the quiet—which made the experience even more enjoyable. Swans and other water birds appeared perfectly at ease in the freezing water. In the distance, Toronto’s skyline provided a subtle yet striking contrast to the frozen landscape.

Here are some of my favourite images.

© 2014 Gaetano Antonini