The Iraqi Junior National Cycling Team, above, is captured in stunning images from photographer and UC Davis alum Max Whittaker, who traveled to Iraq in January of this year. While on assignment as a freelance photographer for an international news agency, Whittaker came in direct contact with people and events that transformed his perspective from outsider to insider. His photography, which is currently featured at the Michel-Novelozo Gallery, dives deep below the surface of the Iraq most Americans will recognize. The Whittaker exhibit is organized around six themes -- violence, struggling, water, returning home, rebuilding and dreaming. The Michel-Novelozo Gallery is located at 603 Fourth St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Whittaker's exhibition runs through Nov. 2. An artist's reception will be held from 7 to 9 p.m., Friday, Oct. 29. For information, call (530) 756-5752.