What Is The Photo Ark Exhibit?

*Photo by Jeremy Vessey on Unsplash

On October 20th, 2018, my family and I attended the opening of The National Geographic Photo Ark exhibit at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. The mission of the project is “saving species through the power of photography.”

The Fort Collins Museum results from the partnership between the City of Fort Collins Museum and the nonprofit Discovery Science Center. In 2008, this partnership merged its operations and the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery opened its doors in November 2012.

In 2018, my family and I got a membership at the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery. There are so many amazing perks. Membership consists of free museum admission, members-only event invitations, savings at The Museum Store, discounted OtterBox digital dome tickets, exclusive discounts on programs, and many other membership benefits.

The National Geographic Photo Ark

The National Geographic Photo Ark exhibit is the first Museum sponsored event that we all attended as a family. Our love of animals bolstered our excitement! Especially, when we learned the Photo Ark uses the power of photography to help educate and inspire to save endangered species before it is too late.

Joel Sartore is the founder of The Photo Ark. He is a photographer, speaker, author, regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine, conservationist, teacher, and National Geographic Fellow.

Through his project, Sartore has photographed 8,485 species throughout the world in 40 different countries. Many of these endangered species continue to face a growing threat to their own survival.

In his words, “It is folly to think that we can destroy one species and ecosystem after another and not affect humanity. When we save species, we’re actually saving ourselves.”

Sartore explains, “I want people to care, to fall in love, and to take action.”

The Exhibit

As a special exhibit in the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery, Photo Ark requires separate admission. To my surprise, we all received free admission due to our family membership.

Score!

My family and I had a wonderful experience. We spent most of our time exploring the exhibit. The kiddos loved exploring and learning about the different species of animals.

Large photographs of exotic animals peppered the walls. We took our own photographs next to the photographs by mimicking each animal.

Part of the exhibit incorporates the use of social media to educate and spread the word. You can find further information about the Photo Ark by using the following hashtag and keyword:

#SaveTogether

There are so many innovative activities taking place in my neighborhood and throughout the world. With the help of Photo Ark and similar programs, I can visit far-reaching destinations and learn about topics I am not exposed to every day.

I can still make a difference and contribute to positive change.

There are so many creative venues to take part in within your own means. Sometimes, it is just a matter of finding them.

The National Geographic Photo Ark is a perfect example. Providing a unique platform such as this gives each individual the means to take part and create change.

It starts with one person.