January 12 – April 27, 2008

Photographed in Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, St. Croix, Virgin Islands, Hawaii and on our eastern shores, sea turtles can be seen swimming, nesting, hatching and being rescued by fishermen.

Leatherbacks, Loggerheads, Hawksbills, Green Turtles, Olive and Kemp's Ridleys are shown in closeups and portraits, providing a unique opportunity to study the beauty and variety of these seldom-seen reptiles.

All sea turtles are on the endangered species list, fighting for survival in a world increasingly hostile to their existence. Loss of nesting beaches, pollution, fishing lines, drift nets, boat propellers and exploitation are among the many dangers threatening these ancient species. Additional photos and informational panels depict these dangers, and show what is being done to ensure the turtles' survival.

Artist and nature photographer Anne Heimann has exhibited widely in art, natural history and science museums, galleries, maritime centers and aquariums. Her work has appeared in numerous nature publications and is part of permanent exhibits both here and abroad. Sea Turtles is one of a series of Anne Heimann's three completed environmental traveling photo exhibits of threatened wildlife and ecosystems.

Click here to watch a Comcast Newsmakers segment (YouTube)!

This exhibition is underwritten by grants from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.

On display in the Central Gallery during regular Museum hours.

Click here to download latest press release (pdf).