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This exhibition underscores the critical connection between art, science,
and activism while highlighting the importance of environmental conservation
The Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum-FIU announces the opening of Path of the Panther, a showcase of the striking work of National Geographic Explorer and conservation photographer Carlton Ward Jr. This exhibition celebrates the Florida panther as a symbol of resilience, hope, and a call to action for the preservation of Florida’s natural heritage.
Florida’s state animal and FIU’s mascot, the Florida panther, stands as the last big cat surviving east of the Mississippi River. Once nearly extinct with fewer than 20 panthers remaining in the 1980s, the species has rebounded to nearly 200 today due to dedicated conservation efforts. However, the biggest obstacle to the panther’s continued recovery is access to enough of its historic territory throughout Florida and adjoining states.
Path of the Panther is the culmination of Carlton Ward’s six-year endeavor to document the panther’s life, environment, and journey through the Florida Wildlife Corridor. This network of public and private land connects the panther’s current range in South Florida to suitable habitat throughout the state and beyond. Ward has spent nearly two decades advocating for the Florida Wildlife Corridor and in 2015 moved his Airstream trailer to the Florida Everglades to launch this project. The images on view in this exhibition were captured using camera traps during Ward’s extensive time in the Everglades and are also featured in the April 2021 issue of National Geographic Magazine and the new National Geographic book of the same title.
“Inspired by FIU researchers and scientists’ enduring commitment to the survival of the Florida panther, the Frost Art Museum is proud to present Path of the Panther. Through the lens of National Geographic photographer Carlton Ward Jr., this remarkable exhibition raises awareness of the panther’s plight and compels us to reflect on our shared responsibility to protect the Everglades and its inhabitants,” said Miriam Machado, interim director of the Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU. “The Florida panther, a powerful symbol of resilience and strength, holds a special connection to FIU as our university mascot. This exhibition not only highlights the beauty and perseverance of these endangered creatures but also serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and the critical role we play in preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems.”
Path of the Panther is on view through August 24, 2025. Funding for this exhibition is provided by the Green Family Foundation. For more information on the exhibition, please visit the Frost Art Museum’s website here.
