Treasured Lands: The 58 U.S. National Parks in Focus

For the past 15 years, photographer Quang Tuan Luong has traveled across the United States, treasure hunting. His treasure?  Not gold or hidden oil reserves, but capturing in photographs the spectacular beauty of our national parks. Luong has single-handedly documented all 58 US national Parks, a feat that no other photographer has accomplished. The result of his quest, "Treasured Lands: The Fifty-Eight U.S. National Parks in Focus," is on view at the National Heritage Museum, February 20 through October 17, 2009. To get his pictures, Luong kayaked through iceberg-laden waters, canoed down wild rivers, scuba dived tropical seas, climbed to the summit of Mt McKinley, and frequently trekked the trail-less terrain of the backcountry, all while lugging his 75-pound large format camera, photo gear, and camping equipment. He once had to sacrifice his gear to escape a bear attack. "Treasured Lands" offers the perspective of a world traveler who is deeply committed to preserving America's beauty and natural resources. By capturing the distinguishing features of each national park, Luong developed a unique understanding of what makes a particular place unique. His commitment to highlight these national treasures also serves as a silent, but urgent, call to conservation.