Garen Checkley

Garen Checkley, School of Communication

Galapagos Photos, 2007

Digital Photography, four 8" x 10" photos

Artist’s Statement:

Many of the Galapagos Islands are nearly as pristine today as they were when Darwin encountered them over 150 years ago. These photos are part of a larger collection I shot the Summer of 2007 in an attempt to capture the natural beauty of the archipelago.

Jurors’ Comments:

"Considering that the Galapagos Islands were the prime location for Darwin’s thinking, it is only appropriate to showcase beautiful photos of the legendary species he saw there."

"The Galapagos continue to inspire us to wonder ‘Where did we come from, and how did we get here’. Evolution by Natural Selection provides one simple path to answer both questions."

"Breathtaking views of the islands, with a focus on the evolution of not only life forms but rocks and landscape as well. Beautiful images, gracefully capturing the theme of evolution and survival of the fittest."

"Nice photos that capture the diversity of the islands that so inspired Darwin."

"These simple images convey a real sense of the place."