The new exhibition offers a look at the connection between human beings and orcas. (photo courtesy of NHM)

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County presents “Orcas: Our Shared Future,” an unforgettable underwater-inspired experience opening on Sunday, April 26.

The new exhibition offers an immersive look at the lives and impact of orcas – the apex predator of all oceans. “Orcas: Our Shared Future” invites visitors to explore the powerful connections between orcas, people and the oceans. Through life-size orca family replicas and dynamic installations, guests will discover how the intelligent, family-centered animals live, communicate and thrive. Sculpture, masks and prints by Indigenous artists of the Pacific Northwest Coast that honor the compelling relationships between orcas and Northwest Coast First Nations will provide additional perspectives on orca-human connection. Weaving together science and culture, the exhibition examines the complex lives of these fascinating animals.

“Orcas are among Earth’s most complicated, fascinating, and misunderstood beings,” said Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga, president and director of the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County. “I hope visitors will leave ‘Orcas: Our Shared Future’ with a deep appreciation for these powerful icons of the seas and the significant role they play in our ocean ecosystems – and our imaginations.”

The 10,000-square-foot multidisciplinary exhibition includes 140 original artifacts and specimens, including a sculpture of an articulated adult female orca skeleton, and a life-size family of three replica orcas. In addition to diving deep into the stories and science that surround the magnificent orca, “Orcas: Our Shared Future” will follow the currents of ecological activism, popular culture and Indigenous beliefs to gain a new appreciation of the sophisticated animals long feared in Western cultures as “Killer Whales.”

On-site programming for “Orcas: Our Shared Future” includes panel discussions, activities and Pod Patrol, a special week of the Adventures in Nature Day Camp for rising K-5 students.

“Orcas: Our Shared Future” will be on view at the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, 900 Exposition Blvd. The exhibition is an add-on experience, with a general admission ticket required for entry. Tickets start at $12 for adults and $6 for children. For information, call (213)763-DINO or visit nhm.org/orcas.