Karen Povey works to educate people on wildlife conservation as she captures images of their ‘wild lives’.Karen has spent over 30 years working in wildlife conservation as a zoologist and educator at four accredited zoos and aquariums, including Tacoma’s Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium and Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. She was directly involved in actions to protect wildlife and wild places worldwide, which for her has been immensely satisfying. A few years ago, her increasing “wonderlust” prompted her to step away from the zoo world to pursue an even deeper immersion in nature. Now, she travels extensively, focusing on writing, photography, and seeking stories of wild creatures and the people who protect them. The intimate relationships she gained with her zoo animal friends bestowed on her an understanding of wildlife biology and behavior that serves her well in interpreting her subjects’ wild lives. “I’m convinced that encouraging conservation action begins by helping people feel like they have a place in nature. I hope my images will inspire viewers to share in the delights of wild creatures as kindred souls in our wonder-full world.” With a deep understanding of animal biology and behavior nurtured through decades of hands-on experience working with wild animals, her mission is to create stories – and capture images - of nature that spur delight, ignite wonder, create empathy, and activate stewardship in the community. "In my collection, “Kindred,” I seek to illuminate the connections between humans and our wild counterparts, capturing moments that reveal our shared emotional landscape. My images document not just the beauty of wildlife, but their identities as individuals living rich social, intellectual, and emotional lives. Through these intimate portraits, I hope to challenge the artificial divide we've created between humans and animals, inviting viewers to recognize themselves in the eyes of creatures we too often dismiss as "other." As we face unprecedented environmental challenges, understanding our kinship with wildlife has never been more crucial. My hope is that by recognizing these creatures as our kindred beings – capable of joy, frustration, and strong social bonds – viewers will be moved to become better stewards of the wild spaces and species that remain. For in protecting them, we protect the very essence of what makes our world extraordinary: the intricate web of life of which we are all part."--Karen Povey Karen is a trusted voice for nature who nurtures curiosity and inspires caring action – and we’re proud to feature her work at Barlow Gallery. Instagram: @wonderwild.natureWebsite: wonderwildnature.comSubstack: wonderwildnature.substack.com To shop for prints of Karen's photography in various sizes and materials, click HERE.Scroll down to see her featured work at Barlow Gallery.