Wildlife Art on View (and much more):
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
Charleston, South Carolina
sewe.com
February 14-16, 2025
The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is ready to celebrate its 43rd anniversary and fill the streets of downtown Charleston with animal lovers of all stripes. Once again, SEWE will program a fine art gallery and an exhibition of artisans and craftsmen alongside its popular demonstrations of dogs and birds of prey in action, plus lively displays by conservation organizations and the South Carolina Department of Agriculture. Drawing at least 50,000 visitors each year, these activities highlight the urgent need to protect wildlife and preserve our natural resources.
The art exhibition features more than 90 painters and sculptors, both established and emerging. They range from the hand-carved feather artistry of sculptor Chris Maynard (Olympia, Washington) to international big game painters like Grant Hacking (South Africa) and Audubon-inspired artists such as Art LaMay (Palm Coast, Florida).
This year’s featured artist is Ray Brown, whose charcoal drawing “Veiled” (above) will be visible everywhere on the festival’s official poster. Illustrated here, this original wildlife art will be on display at the Gallery by SEWE, then auctioned during the VIP gala and sale on February 13. Brown has joined a small, distinguished circle of SEWE’s featured artists including John Banovich, Greg Beecham, Kathleen Dunphy, Julie Jeppsen, and Ryan Kirby.
“This is truly an honor and a validation of the work I’ve done over the years,” Brown declares. “But more than that, it’s a full-circle moment for me. SEWE was the first show where I exhibited my work, more than 20 years ago. To be chosen now takes me back to that first time I walked into the ballroom, and I feel proud of what I’ve accomplished since then. I’m grateful that SEWE has continued to support me and provide a platform to showcase my work and passion for wildlife.”
Brown is known for evocative charcoal pieces, and his choice of medium reflects his commitment to simplicity and authenticity. He strives to convey profound depth and emotion through textures and thoughtful compositions. In “Veiled,” he depicts an enormous bull moose, which symbolizes the noble qualities of wildlife.
Brown’s journey began with a B.S. degree in visual communications, which led to a career in commercial illustration and graphic design in his hometown of Baltimore. Longing to capture the spirit of nature, Brown seized an opportunity in 2003 to relocate to Southern California, where he has pursued fine art full-time.
Throughout the year, SEWE welcomes art lovers to its Gallery by SEWE in The Shops at Charleston Place downtown. This space is a continuation of the festival’s popular fine art venue, and is also home to a program of artist residencies.
