Since 1983, Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) has proudly presented the finest in wildlife art and the sporting life. Held in Charleston, South Carolina, SEWE is one of the largest and longest running art event of its kind and has become known as the premier wildlife art event on the East Coast. A three-day celebration of wildlife and nature through fine art, conservation education, sporting demonstrations and the people who honor them all, SEWE plays host to hundreds of artists, exhibitors, and experts in wildlife and nature art – all eager to share their art and insights with more than 40,000 attendees from across the nation.
SEWE is nature’s gallery, where collectors and conservationists capture the experience through coveted works of art. For the avid sportsman, for the person who revels in the sporting lifestyle or even a simple moment unplugged, this weekend is the ultimate luxury—the pursuit and the prize. SEWE is…Nature. Curated.
SEWE’s impact on Charleston and the state continues to grow, as does its popularity. Each year, it generates an estimated $50 million; it provides the public with easy, affordable, enjoyable access to wildlife and nature conservation programs; it increases awareness about the need to protect and preserve our natural environment; and, it celebrates our collective love for wildlife, nature and our role in preserving them for generations to enjoy.
The 37th annual event will open to general admission ticket holders on Friday, February 15 and close Sunday, February 17 at multiple venues in charming downtown Charleston. New this year, is an opening night kick-off party on Wednesday, February 13 by ticket only and VIP events begin Thursday, February 14. SEWE will showcase the work of 100 painters, carvers and sculptors in the Fine Art Gallery at Charleston Place. Each year, SEWE includes well-respected veterans, mid-career artists and talented up-and-comers in the weekend event. One painter is selected as Featured Artist each year.
Lou Pasqua has been selected as the 2019 Featured Artist. An avid sportsman, Lou Pasqua’s lifelong passion for the outdoors and wildlife translates to his artwork. Coupled with his twenty plus years in the graphic design industry, his ability to capture emotion and movement has made him one of the most sought-after sporting and wildlife artists in the country. Residing in Etna, Pennsylvania, Pasqua’s work can be found in collections and galleries across the nation, as well as on the covers of numerous publications.
“I feel privileged to be selected as Featured Artist for the 2019 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition,” says Pasqua. “To be chosen as the Featured Artist among so many talented individuals confirm to me that people appreciate my efforts and the body of work I have created. This recognition is encouragement to keep painting and improving.”
Pasqua’s painting, Little Havoc, has been selected as the Featured Painting and subject of the official SEWE 2019 poster. The painting depicts a Boykin Spaniel and gives the viewer a front row seat to the thrill of flushing a covey of quail. Pasqua’s original painting will be available at auction during the VIP Signature Gala and Sale, February 14, 2019. The Official 2019 Poster is available for purchase now.
“At its core, SEWE desires to present the finest wildlife art available. With that in mind, Lou Pasqua was an obvious choice for the 2019 Featured Artist. Lou’s sporting paintings are unmatched, and it is a privilege to showcase his work,” says SEWE Art Curator, Natalie Henderson.
With an ongoing focus to bring renowned wildlife and sporting art to Charleston, SEWE also welcomes Guest Artists and Walter Matia and Sandy Scott.
Walter Matia began casting bronze sculptures in 1980. He is as accomplished as he is talented. Initially concentrating on bird life, over the years he has worked on sporting dogs, other mammals and large fountain and garden pieces, which includes a fountain and bronze wall frieze for the United States President’s guest house. Matia resides in Dickerson, Maryland.
Sandy Scott believes wildlife artists should be in the field to accurately present their subject to the viewer. A lifelong interest in aviation has been invaluable to her work. “I believe my knowledge of aerodynamics has been helpful in achieving the illusion of movement in my bird sculptures,” says Scott. Headquartered in Lander, Wyoming, Scott has experienced and lived what she depicts in her sculptures, which has won her many accolades throughout the years.
Kick off SEWE 2019 at the Gibbes Opening Night Party, a celebration of art through the sporting and landscape paintings of one of the genre’s great masters, Ogden M. Pleissner. New this year, join SEWE friends and collectors at the Gibbes Museum of Art for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as we welcome Lying in Wait: Sporting art by Ogden M. Pleissner. Admission included in the VIP Ambassador Package. Limited tickets available.
Watch SEWE artists create original pieces live during the Quick Draw/Speed Sculpt on Friday, February 15 in the Fine Art Gallery at Charleston Place. Working in their designated exhibit space, each participating artist will have just one hour to create a piece from start to finish. A live auction will take place after where attendees can bid on the works.
The second annual Birds of a Feather Ladies Brunch Benefit, presented by Norton & Hodges, invites you to raise money and your glass at the Francis Marion Hotel on SEWE Saturday, Bites and bubbles will be abound at this premier event, complemented with a silent auction and one-of-a-kind raffle items. Individual tickets, tables for ten and the exclusive Head Table are available for purchase now on sewe.com.
Copley Fine Art Auctions, the world’s leading American sporting art auction company is hosting its 2019 Winter Sale during SEWE weekend at the Marriott Hotel. Located in Boston, Copley specializes in antique decoys and 19th- and 20th-century American, sporting, and wildlife paintings. Copley’s bi-annual sales are the premier events for collectors of sporting art, decoys, fishing collectibles, and other related folk art. Quality objects start at $100 and range to over a million dollars. The SEWE Dealer Exhibition is on Friday, February 15 and Saturday, February 16 from 10 am until 6 pm at the Marriott Hotel. The Auction Preview on Friday will be from 3-5 pm and 8:30-10 am on Saturday. The main auction is on Saturday at 10 am.
SEWE will again utilize the Charleston Gaillard Center. This superior performance hall and event space will house SEWE’s live performances and the SEWE Marketplace, a curated collection of outstanding local, regional and national artists and artisans. The SEWE Marketplace at the Gaillard Center will include a varied mix of creations, including handcrafted furniture, woodworks, nature photography, knife makers, jewelry and more.
SEWE is excited to welcome back Jeff Corwin to the Gaillard Center! Television personality, nature conservationist and author, Jeff Corwin will entertain and delight SEWE attendees at the Gaillard Center with live presentations on Friday and Saturday. Best known as host and executive producer of Ocean Mysteries on ABC, Jeff is recognized as a global leader in exploration and conservation. Jeff will have two performances throughout the weekend, one on Friday, February 15 and one on Saturday, February 16.
Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, longtime SEWE favorite, will introduce the wonders of the natural ecosystems and give SEWE attendees an up-close look at alligators, bobcats, foxes, birds of prey, snakes and much more. Busch Wildlife will have two shows throughout SEWE weekend at the Gaillard Center.
Back by very popular demand are sheep and duck herding demonstrations at Brittlebank Park. Windy Knolls Farm owner Bill Coburn will be showcasing the fascinating world of herding instinctive to the collie breed. Watch his collies artfully muster sheep and ducks through various obstacles. Don’t miss this master and his dogs at work throughout SEWE weekend.
Once again SEWE will host DockDogs® where crowds flock to Brittlebank Park to watch this popular high-flying, big-splashing competition. SEWE’s Sporting Village with outdoor outfitters, boats & equipment, and fishing/hunting/safari guides will also be at Brittlebank Park along with skillful retriever demonstrations, fly fishing, fly tying and cast net tossing instruction by the experts at Charleston Angler, food vendors and live bluegrass music.
Also, at Brittlebank Park, will be a plethora of fun, educational activities and programs for children of all ages including Eudora Farms pony & camel rides and exotic petting zoo, a spider Jump and a power rock climbing wall.
Marion Square will feature a conservation tent, live educational performances, food from area eateries and live music. The venue will also play host to many children’s activities as well including the popular Edisto Island Serpentarium tent.
Marion Square will also house the Fresh on the Menu / Certified South Carolina Kitchen Stage. Presented by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture and hosted by the Lee Bros., watch more than a dozen of South Carolina’s greatest chefs, farmers, and home cooks demonstrate how to prepare some of their favorite recipes with locally grown and produced ingredients. Sample products from the producers, processors and vendors that make up the Certified South Carolina program. Times vary throughout the weekend.
One of the most educational and entertaining shows during SEWE, the Center for Birds of Prey will be conducting free flight demonstrations in the arena at Marion Square. See amazing flight demonstrations up-close by a variety of raptors including falcons, eagles, owls and hawks and learn about the important role they play in our eco-system.
Also, in the arena at Marion Square, The Orianne Society will present why reptiles and amphibians are an integral part of our ecosystem. Learn why and how The Orianne Society promotes the conservation of these creatures and game species (such as quail, turkey and deer) in an informative presentation with the Eastern Indigo Snake, Gopher Tortoise, Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake and more.
The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) has been bringing together art collectors and wildlife enthusiasts for the past 37 years. Throughout history, SEWE has remained true to its roots. Its values of honoring wildlife and nature are ingrained in the framework of the event, much like paint on a canvas. Join us in February where we applaud the works of world-renowned painters, sculptors, artisans and entertainers. Together, let’s celebrate the art of tradition. Get your tickets today.
Members of SEWE’s VIP program enjoy perks and insider access throughout the weekend including private art viewings, parties, exclusive lounge areas (with snacks and adult beverages), shuttle service and priority entry to all venues during show hours. A limited number of VIP Packages are available, which offer private viewings, insider access and special events throughout the weekend.
SEWE day tickets are $15-$25, 3-day passes are $50, and children 10 and under are admitted free with a ticketed adult. SEWE provides free shuttle service between venues during show hours with a ticket or badge, and handicapped accessible service is available.
For more information on SEWE 2018 or to purchase general admission or special event tickets, visit www.sewe.com or call (843) 723.1748.