Stories Through Exhibits

© Thomas D. Mangelsen, RAINWALK, 2002

JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 7, 2026

Stuhr Museum is proud to announce A LIFE IN THE WILD, a nationally touring exhibition featuring the work of acclaimed wildlife photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen, will be exhibited in the Leo B. Stuhr Building this summer. On view June 20 through September 7, 2026, this landmark exhibition marks the final stop of an extraordinary 8-year, 31-venue tour spanning the United States and Canada—and carries special significance as a homecoming to Mangelsen’s Nebraska roots.

Featuring 40 of Mangelsen’s most resonant and iconic wildlife images, A LIFE IN THE WILD invites visitors on a powerful visual journey into the natural world and the fragile balance of survival shared by its most iconic species. Each photograph reflects decades of fieldwork, patience, and a rare ability to capture animals in their natural environments under uncompromising conditions.

Mangelsen’s work is known for being created entirely in the wild, with no studio setups or artificial staging. His images are the result of long hours of observation, deep understanding of animal behavior, and the ability to anticipate fleeting moments in rapidly changing natural environments. The exhibition highlights not only the beauty of the natural world, but also the discipline and perseverance required to document it.

At a time when digital media continues to shorten attention spans, A LIFE IN THE WILD stands as a reminder of the value of slowing down, observing deeply, and allowing nature to reveal itself on its own terms. The exhibition encourages reflection on humanity’s relationship with the natural world and the urgent need for conservation and awareness in the 21st century.

THOMAS D. MANGELSEN – A LIFE IN THE WILD

Produced by David J. Wagner, L.L.C.

David J. Wagner, Ph.D., Curator/Tour Director

Our American Dreams

March 2, 2026 – January 3, 2027

In celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary

Our American Dreams is a collaborative exhibit that explores the meaning of the American Dream through the voices and experiences of communities across Nebraska’s Platte River Valley. Created in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, this exhibit brings together original works of art that reflect personal stories, shared values, and hopes for the future. Each piece offers a unique perspective, revealing how the American Dream is lived, challenged, and reimagined across generations.

From reflections on history and heritage to visions of what lies ahead, Our American Dreams creates a vibrant portrait of a nation built on diverse experiences and evolving aspirations. Together, these stories highlight the powerful connection between individual journeys and the communities that help define them.