The most comprehensive photographic study to date of animals in captivity, LIFE BEHIND BARS, examines exotic and endangered animals and the necessity of their captivity for their own protection, and that of their species. The very real risk of many species potentially becoming extinct in the shockingly near future is highlighted in short, informative texts. Julian Starks has traveled all over the United States to institutions and sanctuaries to document these stunning creatures that are no longer threatened but living full, happy lives. Julian Starks started his non profit, Visions of the World Inc., with the mission to raise awareness, change perceptions, educate, and support those who need representation. While creating this book, it was an important goal for Starks to support the wild animal sanctuaries and institutions that protect and preserve endangered species. A portion of the proceeds for LIFE BEHIND BARS VOL. I   book sales and associated merchandise will go directly to these institutions. My dream, thus mission in life is to travel the world and photograph beautiful, vibrant animals in all places and circumstances, free and confined.  In doing so I have witnessed the plight of social injustice, poverty, political unrest and environmental changes that affect the habitats and lives of all species on this planet. It has compelled me to shine a light on the good that people are doing to reverse these effects, and to focus my abilities as a director, photographer, and filmmaker to create positive images of change-makers currently taking action.  LIFE BEHIND BARS VOL. I, my first FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY book, capture the necessity of captivity. The conservation sanctuaries that I visited and featured in this volume are working in concerted efforts with multinational organizations to save species from extinction. Brilliant staffs, scientists, doctors, volunteers and activists, all working to save countless species from extinction staff them.  Some wild animals have only known life in captivity, while others have been rescued from terrible and abusive conditions. Most can never be returned to the wild due to disappearing habitats. Without the people and organizations dedicated to protecting, showing, and educating people about these wonderful animals, there would be many more endangered species facing extinction. Yet some groups of people find it too cruel to see an animal behind bars in a zoo or sanctuary. It is my intention to bring the positive version of these scenarios to light.  I created Visions of the World Inc., a 501(c) 3 nonprofit company, to help support wild animal sanctuaries and institutions like those featured in this book. A percentage of all proceeds from the book, photos and all other ancillary products will go to the sanctuaries and institutions featured within these pages. I strive to bring my unique vision and energy as I explore with my camera, and discover and photograph these beautiful creatures. I hope you will also marvel at their beauty, sympathize with their plight and be inspired to help as I have.  Live long, prosper & peace to all! Sincerely, Julian Starks    CONTENTS5. Introduction by Jerry Block, Curator 7. Mug Shots by Julian Starks9. Dreams In Their Eyes by Benjamin Monarch11. Go Out and Hunt With Your Camera! by Julian Starks12. LIFE BEHIND BARS® Photography by Julian Starks The most comprehensive photographic study to date of animals in captivity, LIFE BEHIND BARS®, examines exotic and endangered animals and the necessity of their captivity for their own protection, and that of their species. The very real risk of many species potentially becoming extinct in the shockingly near future is highlighted in short, informative texts. Julian Starks has traveled all over the United States to institutions and sanctuaries to document these stunning creatures are no longer threatened but living full, happy lives. Julian Starks started his non-profit, Visions of the World Inc., with the mission to raise awareness, change perceptions, educate and support those who need representation. While creating this book, it was an important for Starks to support the wild animal sanctuaries and institutions that protect and preserve endangered species. A portion of the proceeds LIFE BEHIND BARS book sales and associated merchandise will go directly to these institutions. Julian Starks has been a force in the world of the Arts for most of his adult life. Julian began his career in New York City as an established working actor, having studied under acting teacher legends, Sanford Meisner and Bobby Lewis, as well as Martin Barter at the famous Neighborhood Playhouse Theater in many mediums including theater, independent film and national television shows and commercials.  He studied at The School of Visual Arts in New York and eventually decided to move to Los Angeles to further his education at the UCLA School of Film and the Los Angeles Film School and to further his opportunities