Joel Sartore Awarded Prestigious Rungius Medal
Joel Sartore, photographer and founder of The Photo Ark, was awarded the prestigious Rungius Medal at the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson, Wyoming on Tuesday.
The Rungius Medal, named in honor of renowned artist Carl Rungius, is presented from time to time by the National Museum of Wildlife Art to individuals who have made lifetime or extraordinary contributions to the artistic interpretation and preservation of wildlife and its habitat. In establishing the Rungius medal, it is the intention of Trustees to recognize outstanding individuals and organizations across fields ranging from the fine arts to the natural sciences. Symbolized by a beautiful, specially designed gold medal, the Rungius Medal is the Museum’s highest honor.
The museum has awarded the Rungius Medal to many influential contributors to wildlife preservation in the past such as Jane Goodall and E.O. Wilson, among others.
“To say that this is an honor would be an understatement,” said Sartore. “My deepest thanks to the Museum, and the fine work they have done for decades.”
The National Museum of Wildlife Art is an institution that inspires appreciation and awareness of the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it. It displays high quality North American wildlife art which is supplemented by wildlife art found worldwide.
“The mission of The Photo Ark and the Museum are much the same; to engage the public with the wonders of nature, and be moved to save it, while there’s still time.” Sartore remarked. “Through the power of visuals, we continue to give a voice to the voiceless. There is no higher calling.”
