Exceptionally striking National Geographic images shot by some of the world’s finest photographers is now on display at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.

From a glacier in Patagonia to the deepest caves of Papua New Guinea, Rarely Seen: Photographs of the Extraordinary features astonishing moments, natural wonders, and beguiling objects captured in National Geographic photographs.

Experience visual wonders – from the ethereal green of Canadian Northern Lights to the warm glow of Thailand’s Festival of Lights – via Rarely Seen, National Geographic photographs of seldom-seen places, events, natural phenomena, and man-made heirlooms. Explore photography themes throughout Museum programs for all ages and via hands-on activities in Art Park, the Museum’s interactive family gallery in the lower level; check the Museum’s events calendar for program details.

Included among the astounding photographs taken from the far reaches of the globe is a striking image from Wisconsin. Ian Plant – whose Ice Cave Wisconsin is one of the fifty Rarely Seen photographs – will lead a gallery walk, class, and presentation during his Museum residency, May 12-13 (see schedule, below).

Plant started taking photographs while in law school, bought his first camera, and – after practicing law for eight years – transitioned to full-time photography. Primarily interested in landscape and wildlife photography, Plant strives for the unexpected by incorporating long exposures, unusual lighting conditions, and non-traditional perspectives. Managing editor of the online resource “Outdoor Photography Guide” and author of books and instructional videos, Plant’s work is both inspirational and educational. During his Museum residency, supported by a grant from the B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation, Plant will share techniques and stories of his adventures.

Rarely Seen is organized and traveled by the National Geographic Society and remains on view at the Woodson Art Museum through May 27.

Top photo: Cesare Naldi, Elephant Connection, Andaman Islands, from the National Geographic exhibition Rarely Seen

Dreamscaper: Ian Plant Residency, Saturday & Sunday, May 12 & 13

Whether hanging over an active volcano’s rim, braving the elements to photograph endangered species, or trekking deep into wilderness places most will never see, professional photographer Ian Plant continues his quest to capture the beauty of our world via his camera. Plant leads Woodson Art Museum public programs and a class designed to help participants see and frame subjects in a new light.

  • Photographer Gallery Walk, Saturday, May 12, 1-2 p.m. – Join Ian Plant for a gallery walk, gaining his insights and impressions of Rarely Seen photographs, including his own, Ice Cave Wisconsin.
  • Lessons from the Field: Photography Class, Saturday, May 12, 3-6 p.m. – Ian Plant shares expert photography techniques by showing participants how to see the world the way your camera sees it. From technical advice about aperture and exposure settings to the artful use of perspective, composition, and light, Ian’s photography lessons at the Museum will alter how you see the world and transform your photography. Designed for intermediate photographers; call the Museum at 715-845-7010 to register and for more information. Fee: $15, members; $25, non-members. Scholarships available thanks to the Wisconsin Valley Art Association; call the Museum to inquire.
  • Stories behind the Shots, Sunday, May 13, 1-2 p.m. – Photographer Ian Plant shares favorite photos taken around the world. Listen to stories about his experiences and expeditions, from up-close encounters with endangered species to some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth.