Photographer and Nebraska native Joel Sartore is getting a permanent exhibit of his project documenting every species living in the world’s zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries at the University of Nebraska State Museum.

The National Geographic Photo Ark exhibit will open to the public April 19. Sartore started the Photo Ark project in his hometown of Lincoln in 2006. Since then, the world-renowned photographer and National Geographic Explorer has traveled the world in his quest to create a photo archive of global biodiversity that ultimately will feature portraits of more than 25,000 species of birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.

The exhibit, comprising digital displays of Sartore’s photos and videos, will be on Morrill Hall’s first floor. A dedicated seating area will allow visitors to view the images and hear Sartore explain his mission and share behind-the-scenes details such as the challenge of getting animals to stay in one place long enough to photograph them.

It’s a unique, long-term relationship with Sartore, whose commitment to wildlife conservation reflects the museum’s mission well, said Susan Weller, the museum’s director.

“It’s incredibly exciting to bring the Photo Ark to Morrill Hall,” Weller said. “Joel’s stunning photographs remind us of the interconnectedness of all life. We are looking forward to bringing this message of conservation to Joel’s hometown.”

The Photo Ark has taken Sartore to zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries around the world. He’s produced several books on the theme and is a regulator contributor to National Geographic magazine. Sartore’s work also has been seen in Audubon magazine, Life, The New York Times and Sports Illustrated. His work has been covered by National Geographic’s Explorer, NBC Nightly News, NPR’s Weekend Edition, Fresh Air with Terry Gross and the PBS documentary series “Rare: Portraits of the Photo Ark.” He also is a regular contributor to the CBS Sunday Morning Show.

Benefactors of the Morrill Hall exhibit of the Photo Ark are Del Lienemann Jr. and his wife, Mary.

The National Geographic Photo Ark is a multiyear effort to raise awareness of and find solutions to some of the most pressing issues affecting wildlife and their habitats. In addition to documenting every species living in the world’s zoos, aquariums and wildlife sanctuaries, the project aims to inspire action through education and help protect wildlife by supporting on-the-ground conservation efforts.

No matter its size, each animal is treated 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 explains. “It engages their feelings of compassion and a desire to help.”

Sartore is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and lives in Lincoln.

University of Nebraska State Museum