Wildlife Celebration

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition showcases two-dimensional art and sculpture by top wildlife artists.

This February, the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition returns to the Lowcountry of Charleston, South Carolina, for its 41st year. This beloved annual event features new works of art by hundreds of the best wildlife artists working in the country today, as well as a variety of wildlife and conservation events. Julie Jeppsen, On the Wire, oil on canvas, 14 x 18"

At its heart, SEWE—a 501(c)(3) non-profit—is purely a celebration of animals, nature and conservation, and many of its participating artists directly support a variety of conservation organizations. Among the artists attending the 2023 event are Amy Lay, Terry Miller, Nelson Tucker, Peggy Watkins, Eleanor Parker, Larry Moore, Hilarie Lambert, David Kiehm and many others. Oil painter Ryan Kirby is the 2023 Featured Artist. “It’s a huge honor and a great opportunity for me. I’ve been a part of the show for nine years now, and in that time I’ve seen some tremendously talented artists take the stage as the featured artist,” he says. A view of the artwork on display at a previous Southeastern Wildlife Exposition.

Amy Lay, Vix, oil and charcoal on canvas, 20 x 20"

“There’s this spirit that is absolutely organic, that we’re going to descend upon Charleston every February and set up shop, enjoy each other’s company, swap stories, enjoy art and celebrate the city,” says SEWE president and CEO John Powell. Laura Adams, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and Native Hibiscus Vines, paper collage on wrapped canvas with finished edges, 36 x 36"

Ray Gamradt, Bouquet, charcoal on board, 24 x 36"

During the ever-popular Quick Draw/Speed Sculpt and Auction, visitors can watch the “imagination, talent and process behind SEWE artists” as they paint or sculpt an original work of art from start to finish in the course of one hour. A live auction is held immediately afterwards for attendees to bid on the one-of-a-kind paintings and sculptures. The Quick Draw/Speed Sculpt takes place February 17.

The Private Preview Afternoon will be held February 16, from 1 to 5 p.m., with the Signature Gala & Sale from 7 to 11 p.m. The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition runs February 17 to 19. —

Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
When: February 17-19, 2023
Where: Various locations throughout downtown Charleston, SC
Information: (843) 723-1748, www.sewe.com