March 31 – September 12, 2003 Norbert Wu Special Preview* Under Antarctic Ice Main Floor Galleries 500 5th Street NW Open during Third Thursdays, 5 – 8 p.m. or by appointment.

“These southern seas are proving to be full of surprises. It was undoubtedly the most difficult place that I have ever worked, but it was rich in extraordinary life, unexpectedly colorful and filled with the eerie symphonies of Weddell seals. I was captivated by the magic of this pristine place” – Norbert Wu.

This exhibition explores Antarctica's underwater world through the work of renowned photographer Norbert Wu, whose photographs have been acclaimed as the finest ever taken in this harsh environment. They are the result of expeditions to Antarctica in 1997 and 1999-2000, made possible by the National Science Foundation's Antarctic Artists and Writers Program.

Until recently, scientists thought that the waters of Antarctica, like those of the Arctic, supported a relatively low diversity of life. But the forty large format photographs featured in the exhibition prove otherwise. Against the lucid blue waters – virtually free of phytoplankton because of the absence of sunlight – Wu discovers a world of sea anemones, urchins, fish, sponges and brilliant red stars. Above and below the surface, he captures images of whales, seals and penguins, to reveal the rich diversity of Antarctic life.

Presented as part of Third Thursdays, the Cultural Development Corporation’s month celebration of arts in downtown DC

*Special preview in the new National Academies building at 500 Fifth Street, NW during Third Thursdays, the monthly celebration of arts in downtown DC, April 17, May 15, June 19, and July 17, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. This exhibition will open to the public in Fall 2003 at the National Academy of Sciences building, entrance at 2100 C Street, NW.

Norbert Wu’s Website

For more information: 202-334.2436, or arts@nas.edu