SEWE Weekend 2011

Okay, I'm woefully late in posting these photos. It's been nearly 2 weeks since sister Cinder and I attended the Southeastern Wildlife Expo in Charleston, SC. Fondly known as SEWE (pronounced SeeWee to locals and long time attendees) this show is billed as the "largest wildlife art/nature event in the nation". I know I've never seen anything quite like it - over 120 painters & sculptors from across the country, all exhibiting work that celebrates wildlife. It happens every February. I've only been twice. But I'm hooked.

The sculptures held special appeal to me, like the above mask from an artist whose work appears at Brookgreen Gardens. This one, too, made me pause. The photo doesn't do it justice. It was splendid.

And this one.

Because I am not a painter, I am in awe of those who are. The first time I attended SEWE. many years ago, I purchased a print from wildlife artist, Carl Brenders. He was at SEWE this year and I was delighted to meet him. His medium is watercolour. You'd almost think it was photography.



For those who have never visited Charleston, the city is a work of art in itself. An antebellum masterpiece. From its churches ...

...to the historic residences on Rainbow Row...

...there are few places like Charleston. When the city isn't hosting events like SEWE or Spoleto, it's gardens draw the eye. While we were there the camellias were in bloom.

And then there is the harbour....the lure of a marina at sunset.

It was a wonderfully inspiring weekend. I returned home with so many memories and images I'd like to explore in clay. Next year SEWE weaves its magic February 17-20. Hopefully I'll be there.