When it comes to the natural world, some of the most active and ecologically vital creatures are also the smallest. The WonderLab project, created by photographer Anand Varma, focuses on showcasing these minuscule miracles and their fascinating hidden worlds. See them for yourself at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Varma will present some of his most iconic work and how he made it happen.
Photographing hummingbirds, bumblebees, squid or tiny parasites requires skill, ingenuity, patience and even a little luck but Varma has the amazing photographic research to show for it.
Nature’s Hidden Worlds are no Match for National Geographic Photographer Anand Varma
Anand Varma is a National Geographic Explorer and biologist-turned-photographer. He sees his work as “a way to illuminate the layers of beauty and complexity that are otherwise hidden from view.” And lately those layers are incredibly tiny.
Recent subjects have included parasites, bees, hummingbirds, bats and jellyfish. Positioning these animals for photography often includes the creative creation of frames and temporary tanks or containers as well as backgrounds which accentuate their uniqueness.
Varma says that when he visits the Washington Center, he’ll be showcasing images from throughout his storied career. More than just inspecting the subject animals as scientific marvels, Varma applies his scientific background to discuss honeybee health, hummingbird biomechanics and jellyfish life cycles.
Part Science, Part Art, All WonderLab Wonderful at the Washington Center
Varma’s insatiable curiosity and National Geographic know-how led him to create WonderLab. This project hopes to “develop innovative photography and videography techniques that push the boundaries of how we understand the wonders of our world.” Their current project is following the development of chicken embryos as they develop in the egg.
More than just a personal photography studio, WonderLab provides education and mentorship. They offer Learning Resources for educators and students and fascinating video links into behind-the-camera processes.
During his session in Olympia, Varma will likewise blend photography and video as well as hosting a question-and-answer session. “The Q&A is my favorite part of the night,” says Varma, “and I’ve done speaking events year-round for 10 years. This visit is for any age and no science background is needed.” Just bring your curiosity, wonder and plenty of questions about the nearly invisible behaviors of the natural world, especially those beyond the naked eye.
The Washington Center’s Adventure Series Explores both Nature and Human Creativity
Inside WonderLab: Exploring Nature’s Hidden Worlds is just one portion of the Washington Center season’s annual Adventure Series. In March 2026, they’ll look at The Power of Creativity: A Journey Through Storytelling, Exploration, and Hope with photographer, journalist and author Kike Calvo.
A fellow National Geographic Explorer, Calvo has visited more than 120 countries. He’s also a National Geographic Certified Educator and Safina Center Fellow (2020-2023). During this presentation, he’ll discuss how creativity can be a catalyst for connection, storytelling and meaningful change.
Other informative events at the Washington Center include Serial Killers with Dr. Scott Bonn on October 30, Stop Making Sense on January 16, Stories from the Warrior Society on January 24 and An Evening with Fran Lebowitz on March 15.
You can see their whole season at a glance through the Center’s website as well as read more about 25-26 subscription information. Subscriptions start at just 5 shows for 15%.
Tickets and subscriptions can be purchased online or through the Box Office which is open from noon until 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, noon until 4 p.m. on Saturday and two hours before any ticketed event. Call 360.753.8586 or email boxoffice@washingtoncenter.org with questions.
George Eliot once said that “great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” Some of the smallest things have the biggest impacts. From ant colonies to beehives, it’s amazing what you can learn. Thanks to National Geographic Explorers like Anand Varma and his WonderLab, we can study, explore and appreciate the intricacies and magnificence of these tiny species.
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