Epic Palmer Museum exhibition explores 30 years of ecology and art

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Palmer Museum of Art in the College of Arts and Architecture at Penn State invites visitors to experience a wild ride filled with scientific and creative discoveries. Opening on Aug. 30, "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld" is the first survey of work by these two renowned artists who have long explored their relationship to ecology, nature and each other across three decades of professional and personal friendship.

Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman have each achieved international prominence for their individual and distinctive art practices while their creative and intellectual paths have evolved in tandem. They met in New York in the 1980s, and — since 1991 — their shared love of natural science, history, biology and outdoor exploration has cemented their friendship, leading to periodic collaborations that include tropical expeditions to Belize and Guyana, published dialogues, a book and more.  

Today, their art collectively speaks to life amid environmental collapse. "Journey to Nature’s Underworld" follows their work from 1990 to the present day. 

"Presenting this show has been a monumental undertaking, befitting the monumental nature of humankind’s vexed relationship with the environment,” said Palmer Interim Director Joyce Robinson. “We are delighted to showcase the impactful work of these two major figures in the contemporary art world.” 

The exhibition at the Palmer showcases sculptures, paintings and works on paper by Dion and Rockman as well as a major new collaborative diorama. It is organized as a journey of discovery through pressing subjects, including invasive and endangered species, toxic aquatic environments, polluted landscapes, and future scenarios depicting the effects of global warming and waning biodiversity. The imagery of the underworld referenced by the title of the exhibition is also full of themes and ideas that visitors can ponder: the realm below the Earth’s crust; the metaphor of a land of the dead; archaeological excavations; and elements of crime and wickedness. Walking through the exhibition, visitors will journey through aquatic, over- and underworld environments and reflect on deeply rooted beliefs about nature and humanity’s current course. 

Through imaginative storytelling and meticulous craftsmanship, Dion and Rockman illuminate unseen and often unsettling layers of ecology, history and human impact, drawing on their 30 years of collaboration and shared passion for the natural sciences. The artworks range from Dion’s intricate archeological collections and specimen cabinets to Rockman’s large and vivid landscape and animal paintings, each illustrating the cultural constructs and environmental challenges that shape our world.  

Although working in different media, Dion and Rockman take similar approaches and strategies to creating their work. They both use intensive research and fieldwork; the language of scientific methodology and models; and allegory, dark humor, and references to popular culture like Disney and Looney Tunes. Both artists also employ display methods found in museums of art and natural history — institutions of supposed authority and objectivity — which they like to subvert and question in their practice. Like natural history displays and wildlife illustrations, their works are grounded in science and close observation, but presented in a rhetorical, sometimes even theatrical, manner. 

The collaborative, interdisciplinary nature of the exhibition and longtime connection between Dion and Rockman is also reflected in the Palmer’s partnerships with two Penn State co-sponsors, one from the Arboretum at Penn State and Penn State Outreach, and the other from the Michael J. Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean’s Chair in the College of Arts and Architecture. 

With the plans for its new location, the Palmer began a focused collaboration with the Arboretum and Penn State Outreach that has only grown in the year since its opening in June 2024. Exhibitions like "Journey to Nature’s Underworld" are a natural overlap for the two public-facing units, whose partnership is rooted in commitment to art, science, nature and discovery, as well as realized in shared spaces, planning and joint programming.  

“Penn State Outreach and the Arboretum at Penn State saw this as a great opportunity to recognize our commonwealth commitments to inspiring discovery, preparing students for future success, and serving Pennsylvania,” said Casey Sclar, H.O. Smith Endowed Director at the Arboretum. “For the Arboretum to illustrate our deep partnership with the Palmer, and for all of Outreach to continue its wide engagement with the entire breadth of the College of Arts and Architecture, is manifest to our journey of shared experiences inspired by the sustainable and resilient bond that Dion and Rockman share, especially shown in this exhibition." 

B. Stephen Carpenter II, the Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean of the College of Arts and Architecture, echoed this sentiment.

“Dion and Rockman's collaboration perfectly mirrors our college's interdisciplinary approach to how art can serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations about the future of our planet,” he said. 

“This groundbreaking exhibition transforms the Palmer Museum of Art into a vital space for understanding humanity's environmental impact. As both a cultural and educational institution, the Palmer demonstrates how contemporary art can illuminate urgent global issues while inspiring the next generation of creative environmental stewards.

“I am proud to be a sponsor of this exhibition,” Carpenter said. 

The slate of related programming built around the special exhibition runs the course of the fall semester and includes combined programming with both the Arboretum/Outreach and the College of Arts and Architecture. With the Arboretum, there will be events like a month-long trash-tracking survey for visitors to pick up litter and report it for data collection; a cooperative "Art After Hours" program with art-making and an interdisciplinary gallery talk; and a garden and gallery book discussion that will bring together themes and staff from both entities. Similarly, the Sept. 11 artist talk with both Dion and Rockman is sponsored by the College of Arts and Architecture’s School of Visual Arts John M. Anderson Endowed Lecture Series.

For a full list of programming, see below or visit the Palmer’s Programs page.

About the Palmer Museum of Art’s presentation of "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld"

The Palmer Museum of Art’s presentation of "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld" closes on Dec. 7. The exhibition was organized by the American Federation of Arts, with support provided by Victoria E. Triplett and Elizabeth Belfer. The exhibition was curated by Suzanne Ramljak, chief curator at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.  

At the Palmer, the exhibition was overseen by Joyce Robinson, interim director, with major support provided by the exhibition's co-sponsors: Penn State Outreach and the Arboretum at Penn State; and the Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos Dean’s Chair in the College of Arts and Architecture.  

Before the Palmer Museum, the exhibition was on view at: Bruce Museum in Greenwich, CT (June 24–Aug. 27, 2023); Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art in Virginia Beach, VA (Feb. 8–June 9, 2024); the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore in Saratoga Springs, New York (July 13, 2024–Jan. 5, 2025); and Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami, in Miami, Florida (Feb. 13–July 20, 2025). 

"Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld" is accompanied by an exhibition catalogue, co-published with Hirmer Publishers. The work of both artists is explored in an introduction by curator Suzanne Ramljak; an essay by Lucy R. Lippard; a new joint interview with Patrick Jaojoco; and an illustrated timeline of the artists’ lives against a backdrop of related cultural events. The catalogue is available for purchase in the Palmer Museum Store. 

Related Programs 

Monday, Aug. 25, through Thursday, Sept. 25 
Tracking Trash: A Community Collection 

This month, we’re turning litter into learning. Join Tracking Trash, a month-long citizen science project with the Arboretum and Palmer Museum where every bottle cap, candy wrapper and coffee cup becomes part of our shared “collection.” By spotting and documenting discarded items in your community, you’ll sharpen your eye for detail, explore the real impact of humans on the more-than-human world, and help us build a visual record that’s equal parts science and art. Think of it as a gallery walk — just outdoors, and the “exhibits” are everywhere. Your finds might surprise you, inspire change or even tell a bigger story. 

Click here to submit to the Trash Tracker.

Thursday, Sept. 4 — 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 
Creative Studio at the Palmer: Sustainable Art Journals 

Reclaim used papers, envelopes, and junk mail to make a custom art journal, and fill it with us throughout the fall program series, inspired by the special exhibition "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld." Creative Studio sessions offer art-based creative activities designed to encourage relaxation, connection with others, and rejuvenation of spirit. Hosted by art educators, interns, or guest artists, these sessions will focus on the practice of creativity, exploring artistic mediums, and making personal connections rather than on final products. 

Thursday, Sept. 11 — 6 p.m. 
Artist Lecture: Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman 

Artists Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman have achieved international prominence for their own distinctive practices that probe mankind’s strained relationship with the environment and the vast ecological consequences of current ideologies about nature. Join us at 6 p.m. for this opportunity to hear from the artists about their individual and collaborative work featured in the special exhibition, Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld. Arrive early for an opportunity to walk through the exhibition with museum educators from 5 to 6 p.m. A sign language interpreter will be present for this talk. To request other accommodations for this program, please contact Bronwyn Flemming, educator for public programs, bmf5778@psu.edu. Limited seating available, please register in advance. This program is co-sponsored by the Penn State School of Visual Arts John M. Anderson Endowed Lecture Series.  

Space limited; please register ahead. Click here to register. 

Sunday, Sept. 14 — 3 p.m. 
Drop-in Tour: America’s Changing Environments: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow   

Start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby. Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide.

Thursday, Sept. 25 — Free, drop-in, 5 to 8 p.m. 
Art After Hours: Journey to Nature’s Underworld 

Plunge into the apocalyptic environments represented in the special exhibition "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld" and explore the epic ecological impact facing our global society. Join the Arboretum and Palmer Museum of Art for an interdisciplinary gallery conversation with Chanel Lange-Maney, doctoral candidate in geography and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies, and participate in interactive art activities including a community paint-by-numbers mural. Before you go, chat with representatives from the Civic Engagement Alliance and learn about service events and alternative breaks focused on the environment and sustainability. Light refreshments will be provided.   

Thursday, Sept. 25 — 6 p.m. 
Gallery Talk: Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld 

Enjoy an interdisciplinary gallery conversation during Art After Hours with Rachel Duke, public programs manager at the Arboretum; Chanel Lange-Maney, doctoral candidate in geography and women’s, gender, and sexuality studies; and Keri Mongelluzzo, educator for academic engagement and access at the Palmer. 

Friday, Sept. 26 — 2 p.m. 
Drop-in Tour: Through the Guide’s Eye – Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld 

Start in the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Lobby. Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide.

Thursday, Oct. 16 — 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 
Creative Studio at the Palmer: Collage Fodder for Sustainable Art Journals 

Zen out with mark-making, painting, and printing to create a collection of decorated papers to use for later collage in your Sustainable Art Journal. Creative Studio sessions offer art-based creative activities designed to encourage relaxation, connection with others, and rejuvenation of spirit. Hosted by art educators, interns or guest artists, these sessions will focus on the practice of creativity, exploring artistic mediums and making personal connections, rather than on final products. 

Saturday, Oct. 18 — Noon to 4 p.m. 
Community Day: Journey to Nature’s Underworld 

Spark curiosity for the natural world through creative art experiences that explore the intersections among artists, communities, the environment, and the pressing ecological challenges facing our planet. Drop-in to participate in gallery experiences, hands-on activities, and brief tours of the current special exhibition "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld." Meet museum staff, graduate assistants, interns and volunteers as you experience the Palmer Museum of Art’s new state-of-the-art building, world-class collections, special exhibitions and academic resources.     

Sunday, Oct. 19 — 2 p.m. 
Drop-in Tour: Penn State Family Weekend: Visions of a Changing Planet 

Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide.

Thursday, Oct. 23 — 5:30 p.m. 
Gallery Talk: Journey to Nature’s Underworld 

Enjoy an interdisciplinary gallery conversation with Raymond Najjar, professor of oceanography, and Joyce Robinson, interim director. 

Thursday, Nov. 6 — 6 p.m. 
Garden and Gallery Book Conversation 

Join educators from the Arboretum and the Palmer Museum of Art for a "Garden and Gallery Book Conversation." We will be discussing "Underland: A Deep Time Journey" by Robert Macfarlane, which explores themes that resonate with the Palmer’s special exhibition "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld." The special exhibition investigates our world's strained relationship with the environment through various pressing subjects, including failing ecosystems, invasive species and the effects of climate change. It provides a striking visual counterpart to the rich narrative of Macfarlane’s "Underland," a record of the author’s journeys in underground spaces, including the Paris Catacombs, the Karst Plateau and a deeply buried laboratory where scientists work to detect dark matter. Copies of "Underland" will be available for sale at the museum store. 

Free with registration required; prior reading of Robert Macfarlane’s book "Underland" expected. Click here to register. 

Friday, Nov. 7 — 2 p.m. 
Drop-in Tour: From Farm to Table

Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide.

Thursday, Nov. 13 — 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 
Creative Studio at the Palmer: Scrap it Up! for Sustainable Art Journals 

Glue, stitch and layer your scrappy bits to create depth and texture on the pages of your sustainable art journal. Creative Studio sessions offer art-based creative activities designed to encourage relaxation, connection with others, and rejuvenation of spirit. Hosted by art therapists, museum educators, interns or guest artists, these sessions will focus on the practice of creativity, exploring artistic mediums and making personal connections, rather than on final products. 

Thursday, Nov. 20 — 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 
DIRTy Date Night with the Arboretum 

Get dirty and flirty while exploring the art beneath your feet! In this hands-on workshop, you and your date will create earth-based pigments using soil, clay, and other natural materials and get a tour of the Palmer Museum of Art's exhibition "Mark Dion and Alexis Rockman: Journey to Nature’s Underworld." You'll leave with a little mess on your hands — and a lot of color on your canvas. Perfect for creative couples who aren't afraid to play in the dirt. Cost: $45 per couple; 10 couples max. 

Sunday, Nov. 23 — 2 p.m. 
Drop-in Tour: The Price of Progress 

Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide.

Sunday, Dec. 7 — 2 p.m. 
Drop-in Tour: Art, Exploration, and the Stories We Collect 

Drop in and discover the Palmer’s world-class collections and exhibitions with a friendly and knowledgeable museum guide.

About the American Federation of Arts 

The American Federation of Arts is the leader in traveling exhibitions internationally. A nonprofit organization founded in 1909, the AFA is dedicated to enriching the public’s experience and understanding of the visual arts through organizing and touring art exhibitions for presentation in museums around the world, publishing exhibition catalogues featuring important scholarly research, and developing educational programs. 

About the curator 

Suzanne Ramljak, an art historian and writer, is chief curator at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Ramljak was formerly a curator at the American Federation of Arts. Previously, she served as editor of Metalsmith and of Sculpture magazines. Ramljak has worked in the curatorial departments of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the University of Michigan Museum of Art. Among the exhibitions she has independently curated are, "Natural Wonders: The Sublime in Contemporary Art" and "Uneasy Beauty: Discomfort in Contemporary Adornment" (both 2018), "Case Studies: Art in a Valise" (2006), "Elie Nadelman: Classical Folk" (2001), "Romancing the Brain" (1999), and "Seductive Matter" (1995). 

About the Palmer Museum of Art 

The Palmer Museum of Art at Penn State is the largest art museum collection between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, and the most significant academic art museum in the state of Pennsylvania. A key element of Penn State’s land-grant mission of teaching, research and public service, the museum is a vital and accessible cultural resource for Penn State’s students, faculty and scholars, as well as for all visitors to and from the entire central Pennsylvania region. Through its world-class objects, programs and outreach, the free museum is a welcoming, inclusive and vibrant forum for authentic arts experiences and cultivates meaningful dialogue about today’s most potent ideas and pressing concerns. 
 
An expansive 21st-century teaching museum, the Palmer Museum of Art is a beacon for advancing the arts and humanities on Penn State’s University Park campus and throughout its diverse communities. The Palmer is dedicated to catalyzing groundbreaking research, scholarship and publications and providing impactful, object-based learning for Penn State and K-12 students. The Palmer’s rewarding and thought-provoking exhibitions and programs promote visitor participation, belonging and discovery. In January, the Palmer was voted one of 10 winners in the national USA Today 10Best contest for Best New Museums of 2025.