An exhibition of the extraordinary new work by internationally recognized conservation photographer Noppadol Paothong will be on display at Webster University’s Kooyumjian Gallery. “Noppadol Paothong: Wild Places” will be open to the public Aug. 1 – Sep. 23. The exhibition features images that reveal the hidden beauty, complexity, and interconnectedness of the natural world through intimate portraits of wildlife and the fragile ecosystems they inhabit.

An artist reception will be held Sept. 4, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the gallery.

Paothong’s photographs invite viewers to experience nature from perspectives rarely seen by human eyes. From microscopic butterfly eggs and the iridescent scales of insect wings to endangered amphibians, elusive mammals, birds in flight, and expansive prairie landscapes beneath star-filled skies, each image uncovers remarkable moments that often take years of patience, preparation, and technical innovation to capture.

Known for combining artistic vision with a deep commitment to conservation, Paothong photographs wildlife in ways that emphasize not only the beauty of individual species, but also the habitats that sustain them. His work explores the relationships between animals, plants, and ecosystems while highlighting the importance of protecting biodiversity in an era of rapid environmental change.

Paothong is an internationally acclaimed conservation photographer whose work has been published by National Geographic, Audubon, Nature Conservancy Magazine, The New York Times, BBC Wildlife, and numerous other publications. His photographs have earned recognition in many of the world’s most prestigious nature photography competitions and have helped bring attention to endangered species and threatened habitats throughout North America and beyond.

Running consecutively as a companion exhibit will be photos by St. Louis artist Juno Musonda. In “WILLED,” Musonda presents a multi-media assemblage of photography, film, typography and Riso prints exploring three Missouri state parks through the individuals who assembled and gave the land that became them: Hawn State Park, Don Robinson State Park and Elephant Rocks State Park.

Musonda explained, “It’s easy to believe that the individual no longer matters. That our voices are too small, our actions too insignificant, and that lasting change belongs only to institutions or those with extraordinary influence. If these places teach us anything, it is that influence is not reserved for the powerful. It belongs to anyone willing to leave the world better than they found it.”

Musonda uses natural light and vibrant colors to reflect his childhood in Lusaka, Zambia, and South City St. Louis. In 2020, he founded Ope Outdoors, a brand that celebrates Missouri and Illinois landscapes through graphic design, group hikes and community cleanups. “We do have vibrant outdoor culture here, and it was just odd to me that we didn’t have a brand celebrating these parks and places.”

Free and open to the public. Registration is open.

Artist Talk and Reception: Join Noppadol Paothong and Juno Musonda for a presentation exploring their stories, techniques, and years of perseverance behind the photographs featured in the exhibitions, followed by audience questions on September 4, 4:30-7:30pm in the Kooyumjian Gallery. Complimentary refreshments and snacks will be served.

Exhibition Information:
“Noppadol Paothong: Wild Places” and “Juno Musonda: WILLED.”

On view Aug 1 - Sep 23 with a special lecture and reception on September 4.

Kooyumjian Gallery
Webster University
8300 Big Bend Boulevard, Second floor
Webster Groves, Missouri 63119

Gallery hours: Daily 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.. Free parking in campus lots.

For additional information, please visit webster.edu/gallery or contact kgallery@webster.edu.

About the Kooyumjian Gallery

The Kooyumjian Gallery at Webster University presents exhibitions that explore contemporary photography, illustration, animation, film, and interdisciplinary visual arts while supporting student, emerging and established artists. Through exhibitions, artist talks, workshops, and public programming, the gallery the St. Louis community with nationally and internationally recognized artists whose work inspires creativity, critical thinking, and dialogue.