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Copyright ©2024 Mark Scheflen Art & Photography
About Mark
Growing up on a farm, I was surrounded by nature, but I couldn’t ignore the gradual deterioration of the environment around me. My community didn’t seem to notice, but I did. This sparked my deep interest in environmental issues. I began hiking, birding, and documenting changes I observed—everything from the water quality in local streams to the increasing amount of trash. These early experiences fueled my curiosity and passion for protecting the natural world.
My fascination with nature grew, and I often dreamed of traveling abroad to explore places like Africa. In 1985, I finally made that dream a reality with my first trip to Kenya. Living with a local family there, I was immersed in a new culture that broadened my understanding of community and deepened my appreciation for the natural world. It was during this time that I went on my first safaris, which ignited a lifelong passion for wildlife and bird photography.
Armed with a professional camera, I began capturing the incredible beauty of Kenya’s wildlife, but my lens also revealed the harsh realities. I witnessed firsthand the destruction of habitats as human expansion, agriculture, and industry encroached on the land. Seeing this devastation through my photography stirred something in me, driving me to not only document it but also raise awareness through visual arts and writing.
Upon returning to the U.S., I began exhibiting my wildlife photography in galleries and public spaces, and I created videos to share with students and young people. These efforts led to the founding of Kiboko Projects, a 501c nonprofit dedicated to environmental education and conservation. Today, I continue to teach about our rapidly changing environment, sharing my experiences and insights in hopes of inspiring others to take action and protect the world around us.
Copyright ©2024 Mark Scheflen Art & Photography