This is Barney. It was the first known sighting of this Spirit bear within the Great Bear Rainforest. The tide was low, he had climbed down a steep mountain to eat the barnacles off the rocky shoreline. He was as interested in us as we were of him.

For over 38 years Michelle Valberg's, has chronicled significant moments that convey national and international impact – from portraits and landscapes to her conservation work documenting numerous wildlife species at risk. Known for her unique ability to create relatable images of unimaginable landscapes and wild creatures, Valberg finds art in all of nature’s most intimate moments. She was awarded the Order of Canada in 2022 and won the wildlife gold medal at the World Photographic Cup in Rome.

Follow Michelle on Instagram @michellevalbergphotography.