Birds In Art

There are landmarks on my calendar every year that I spend a good deal of time and energy working toward. The event I give the most emphasis is usually the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum’s Birds In Art exhibit. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a painting included in this outstanding show for the past five years. Along with that good fortune comes a self-imposed burden of keeping that streak alive.

After getting the coveted “big envelop” for the first time, I challenged myself to prove it wasn’t just a fluke. Still not feeling 100% certain I “belonged” in that crowd after year number 2, the 3^rd consecutive inclusion helped cement my place in the Birds In Art family. If I thought the stress level waiting to hear from the exhibits selection committee would back off a bit, I was completely wrong!

Since that 3^rd year, I’ve gained many friends in the art world… many of whom expect a strong entry from me on a yearly basis. Those expectations from my peers carry with them a considerable amount of weight. The heaviest burden (the one that keeps me awake at night) is still, however, imposed by yours truly. I feel it’s vitally important to put my best foot forward for Birds In Art. It’s not just blowing smoke when you hear someone say, “Birds In Art is the most prestigious wildlife art exhibit in the world.” That very statement is always on my mind when I sit down at the easel.

That being said, I better get back to work. My entries still have a long way to go before the April 15 deadline!

National Museum of Wildlife Art

While on my recent road trip, I visited the National Museum of Wildlife Art in Jackson. My first impression as I browsed the galleries was “WOW!” The size of some of the Carl Rungius paintings was astounding… some at 10’ or more! I spent a great deal of time studying the works of Bob Kuhn and Ken Carlson. I had no idea the Kuhn worked mostly in acrylics. Simply amazing. Ken Carlson has always been a favorite and to examine his paintings up close was a real treat. I’ve always admired the economy of his brushwork… so much is conveyed with a single accurate stroke.

The Western Visions Art Show and Sale occupied much of the gallery space. I was happy to see works from many of my friends hanging on the walls. Is it possible I may soon join them? We’ll see.

It’s hard to imagine anything standing up to the grandeur of Grand Teton National Park, but the Museum is an absolute “must see” for anyone visiting the area. I know I’ll be back.