Calley O’Neill

In the summer of 2006, while on vacation in Seattle with her two teenaged children, Leianna and Noa, Calley O’Neill took her children to the zoo for the first time. She was moved and inspired by the Woodland Park Zoo, opening her mind to what zoos could be. Calley had been strongly drawn to visit Portland, because of its global reputation as a model green city. On their weekend trip to Portland, they visited the Oregon Zoo, arriving at the elephant barn at the exact moment when Rama began his Sunday painting demonstration with keeper Jeb Barsh. As soon as Rama started painting, Calley was overwhelmed by a vision of an international travelling exhibition on endangered species that would reach millions of people. She knew in her bones that she had to work with him! And so she did and so began the Rama Exhibition – an epic journey of art and soul for the earth. Join us to hear about this spectacular, amazing and compelling journey from one incredible and amazing human being. This show made possible due to the generous support of The Fairfax Companies.