Atacama
CULTURAL PROGRAMS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
Atacama
Renewable energy & Mining in the high Desert of Chile
ATACAMA, a seminal exhibition by photographer Jamey Stillings, examines the evolving nexus between renewable energy and mining in Chile’s Atacama Desert. Stillings shares his distinctive aerial perspective to examine dramatic large-scale renewable energy projects, dynamic views of enormous mining operations, and the stark natural beauty of the Atacama Desert, so often scarred by human activity.
Why are Chile and the Atacama Desert important to us? Because much of the copper and lithium used in our cars, computers, and smartphones comes from Chile. As the global leader in copper production, Chile supplies one-quarter of the world’s copper and is the second- largest producer of lithium. These facts make our connection to Chile and its environmental practices tangible and relevant.
This exhibition features aerial photographs taken from 2017 to 2022 that highlight Chile’s innovative approach to renewable energy. New solar, wind, and storage projects supply electricity to the grid, power mines, and significantly reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. Chile has increased its renewable energy capacity by 450% since 2017, and most major mines have switched to 100% renewable energy for electricity, setting a promising example for other nations.
Stillings’ aesthetic interest in the human-altered landscape and environmental sustainability concerns are principal pillars of his photography. His imagery provokes a critical conversation about meeting society’s needs and desires while seeking a balance between nature and human activity.
ATACAMA demonstrates how photography can concurrently be a source of inspiration, motivation, and information. Stillings’ photographs remind us that a carbon-constrained future is crucial to a responsible and sustainable approach to human life on Earth.
The exhibition is only viewable during NAS Building tours and select special events.
Note: This text is taken from the ATACAMA exhibition introduction panel.
October 1st, 2026 — March 4th, 2027
Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences
NAS Building
2100 C St., NW, Washington, DC 20418
Blazing Editions Production:
Blazing Editions proudly collaborated with Jamey Stillings in producing exhibition prints. According to the artist’s December 2025 update, proofing and full-scale production are complete at Blazing Editions. The works have been created as dye-sublimation metal prints, framed in black, museum-quality wood.
Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences:
Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences (CPNAS) explores the relationships among art, science, and culture through rotating art exhibitions, a permanent art collection, and a series of public programs that include performing arts, monthly salons called DC Art Science Evening Rendezvous (DASER), film screenings, and lectures.
About Jamey Stillings
Jamey Stillings is a photographer whose work explores the relationship between human activity and the environment. Since 2010, his long-term project Changing Perspectives has focused on renewable energy development and sustainability, documenting energy infrastructure in the United States,
Japan, Uruguay, and Chile. His photographs combine an artistic sensibility with a documentary approach, offering new perspectives on complex environmental and technological issues. His books include Ivanpah Solar (2015) and ATACAMA (2023). ATACAMA is on view at the National Academy of Sciences, 2101 Constitution Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C., through March 4, 2027. Visitors can view the exhibition during free guided tours of the NAS building, which also highlight its historic art and architecture. Tours are offered regularly, and advance registration is required. For tour dates and registration, visit https://tournasbuilding.eventbrite.com.
Visitors will also have an opportunity to see the exhibition and meet Jamey Stillings when he speaks at the D.C. Art Science Evening Rendezvous (DASER) on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2027, at 6:30 p.m. at the National Academy of Sciences. The program will explore mining, renewable energy, and the changing landscapes of the Atacama Desert from artistic and scientific perspectives.
To register, visit https://Jan212027DASER.eventbrite.com.
