Ansel Adams (1902-1984) was an American photographer and environmentalist. He spent years photographing the American wilderness while actively protecting it from development. He worked with many conservation groups and personally lobbied the government in the attempt to preserve wilderness values. He believed there was a direct relationship between an artist and an environmentalist.

“I believe the approach of the artist and the approach of the environmentalist are fairly close in that both are, to a rather impressive degree, concerned with the ‘affirmation of life’….Response to natural beauty is one of the foundations of the environmental movement.”

– Ansel Adams, “The Role of the Artist in Conservation” address

His writings and photographs eloquently captured the essence of the wilderness experience that many have never had the opportunity to enjoy.

Yosemite Valley, to me, is always a sunrise, a glitter of green and golden wonder in a vast edifice of stone and space. I know of no sculpture, painting or music that exceeds the compelling spiritual command of the soaring shape of granite cliff and dome, of patina of light on rock and forest, and of the thunder and whispering of the falling, flowing waters. At first the colossal aspect may dominate; then we perceive and respond to the delicate and persuasive complex of nature.

— Ansel Adams, The Portfolios Of Ansel Adams