The Hunters’ Leadership Forum award recognizes distinguished NRA members who demonstrate exceptional leadership in the field of hunting and wildlife conservation.
John Seerey-Lester, a renowned wildlife artist and writer, was recently awarded by the National Rifle Association for his outstanding leadership in the field of hunting and wildlife conservation through his riveting depictions of man in nature, all of which are inspired by his own true experiences.
According to NRA HLF Co-Chair Ward “Trig” French, “[Seerey-Lester’s] work inspires and informs all hunters whether new to outdoor pursuits or a seasoned hunter. John’s many extraordinary books and paintings have well chronicled for future generations the value of hunting and its inextricable link to conservation in our country and throughout the world. It is an honor to call John a dear friend and to know his significant contributions to our outdoor pastimes are being recognized by the Hunter’s Leadership Forum.”
The NRA’s mission to “promote hunter safety, and to promote and defend hunting as a shooting sport and as a viable and necessary method of fostering the propagation, growth and conservation, and wise use of our renewable resources” is at the core of Seerey-Lester’s art and story-telling.
The vividness of both his art and writing convey the very anticipation, excitement, and uncertainty that many outdoorsmen feel in the wild when faced with potential danger, reminding viewers and readers of their vulnerability. Much of his most popular work portrays the collision of two worlds, man and wilderness. These images and tales evoke emotions to which not only avid hunters can relate, but anyone who has felt a similar suspense or fear throughout their life. If you haven’t, you will once you delve into Seerey-Lester’s chilling, thought-provoking and inspiring works that bring you right into the moment.
Receiving this award means a great deal to Seerey-Lester. “When I first came over to America, in 1980,” he said, “My intention was to paint subjects that would help conservation and bring awareness to the plight of certain animals. Over the years I donated many paintings to raise funds for various foundations and thankfully a lot of money was raised doing this. When I became a member of the NRA (I am a life member) I was inspired by the Second Amendment, what it meant to the American sportsman. Few people realize the important work that hunters do for conservation, going back in history to the father of conservation, Theodore Roosevelt. These are the characters who inspire me. They had the foresight to realize that wildlife and habitat had to be conserved before it was lost forever. As a result, the setting up of National Parks took place. Now we as artists and writers can visit these locations and enjoy the same experiences as the legendary hunters of the past.”
Legends of the Hunt Elephant Edition
Published in 2009, Legends of the Hunt features a stunning gallery of 105 paintings and a fascinating collection of more that 80 stories by John Seerey-Lester, all reliving the exciting adventures of the world’s greatest sportsmen and explorers between the years 1849 and 1933. Buy Now
