RALEIGH —Cool off from the summer heat and experience the crystal clear waters of Florida's Gulf Coast at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. The Nature Art Gallery presents the underwater photography of Robert Zimmerman and Jim Wainwright August 2 - September 8. Both nationally recognized artists use shadow, light and imagination to bring the water-world to life.

Zimmerman, a life-long resident of Mobile, Ala., says his photography is aimed at giving viewers a peek into the world lying just below the surface. Inspired by the emerald green waters he grew up on, Zimmerman began using photography during his explorations of the freshwater springs lacing the interior of Florida. These cave systems and natural springs, home to many fossil remains, are filled with scenes waiting to be captured on film.

“The springs offer a magnitude of photographic opportunities,” Zimmerman said. “From cascading light streaming through an eerie cave opening to beautiful cypress trees growing along the banks of the springs.”

Jim Wainwright, a resident of Theodore, Ala., uses his knowledge of marine biology to give him insight into where and when to take his under water photographs. From the waters of the Gulf Coast to Central American basins, Wainwright's photography captures images both above and below the water's edge.

“The inspiration . . . comes from my inherent desire to bring out the natural beauty of our world for everyone to see,” Wainwright said. “I use the wonders of light and shadow in my photography to emphasize character and bring out the essence of nature in my photos.”

The Nature Art Gallery, inside the Museum Store, hosts new exhibitions by Southern artists every six weeks. All exhibited art is for sale.

Gallery hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Sunday, noon to 4:45 p.m., and the first Friday of each month until 7 p.m. Admission is free. For a complete schedule of Nature Art Gallery exhibits, please visit www.naturalsciences.org or call the Museum Store at (919) 733-7450, ext. 369.