For more than two decades, renowned wildlife photographer Joel Sartore has traveled the globe in a quest to photograph more than 25,000 wildlife species and their habitats. While the viewer is drawn to the arresting images first, Sartore’s ultimate goal is raising awareness of at-risk species and the fragility of ecosystems.
University of Nebraska State Museum visitors can now experience Sartore’s National Geographic Photo Ark project firsthand in his hometown of Lincoln, Nebraska. Photo Ark exhibit, which opened to the public April 2024, features digital displays of portraits and videos of more than 25,000 species of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
Bringing Sartore’s Photo Ark project to the museum is the result of a donor’s unique vision. Del Lienemann Jr., an alumnus who shares Sartore’s passion for conservation, connected the dots between Sartore’s wildlife conservation focus and the museum’s commitment to educating the public about biological diversity. He and his wife, Mary, generously provided support for the Photo Ark exhibit installation.
The Photo Ark exhibit aims to inspire action through education and help protect wildlife by supporting on-the-ground conservation efforts. No matter its size, Sartore treats each animal with the same amount of affection and respect. The results are portraits that are not just stunningly beautiful, but intimate and moving.
“It’s the eye contact that moves people,” Sartore said. “It engages their feelings of compassion and a desire to help.”
Located in Morrill Hall, the Photo Ark exhibit includes a dedicated seating area where visitors view videos of Sartore explaining his mission and learn about behind-the-scenes details, such as the challenge of getting animals to stay in one place long enough to photograph them.
Sartore has produced several books on the theme and regularly contributes to National Geographic magazine and the CBS Sunday Morning Show. His portraits have been featured in numerous national media outlets and a PBS documentary series.
“Joel’s stunning photographs remind us of the interconnectedness of all life,” said museum director Susan Weller, “Photo Ark will continue its mission as a permanent exhibit in Morrill Hall.”
Additional content
- News release: NU alum, renowned photographer Sartore brings ‘Photo Ark’ to Morrill Hall
- Photo Ark website
Joel Sartore’s Photo Ark features more than 25,000 animal species.