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30 Wonders/30 Years: A History of the Museum in 30 Works

October 28, 2017 - May 6, 2018
Rungius Sportsmens Moose Wildlife Art

Carl Rungius’ Sportsmen’s Moose exemplifies the incredible stories behind many of the objects collected by the Museum during its 30-year existence. This painting appeared on a poster in 1907, promoting a sportsmen’s expo. The National Museum of Wildlife Art owned a copy of the poster and used the image of the moose on the inaugural material for the opening of the Museum in 1987 without knowing where the original was. In 2012, the painting was found in an attic on Prince Edward Island and, thanks to the Robert S. and Grayce B. Kerr Foundation, we were able to acquire it. It is a classic, early Rungius with a great story and clear ties to the Museum.

This exhibit will uncover other amazing stories behind a diverse range of objects as we trace the history of this institution from Wildlife of the American West Art Museum on the Jackson Town Square to the National Museum of Wildlife Art of the United States in its permanent facility overlooking the National Elk Refuge. This exhibition will consist of 30 objects representing the diversity of the collection in terms of depth and breadth.

Rungius Sportsmens Moose Wildlife Art
Carl Rungius (American, b. Germany, 1869 – 1959), "Sportsmen's Moose," 1907. Oil on canvas. 28 x 21 inches. Purchased with Funds Generously Donated by the Robert S. and Grayce B. Kerr Foundation, National Museum of Wildlife Art. © Estate of Carl Rungius.
Liljefors Swans
Bruno Liljefors (Swedish, 1860-1939), "Swans," 1917. Oil on canvas. 27 3/4 x 39 1/2 inches. JKM Collection®, National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Righetti Baboon Sculpture
Guido Righetti (Italian, 1875 – 1958), "Sacred Hamadyras Baboon," 1919. Bronze. 13 1/2 x 11 1/2 x 13 1/2 inches. Gift of Dr. Lee W. Lenz, National Museum of Wildlife Art. © Guido Righetti.
Other Exhibits
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Bison-tennial: From Colonization to Rematriation

Through August 23, 2026

Bison-tennial explores the profound influence of bison on the history, cultures, and landscapes of the North American West, especially within the United States. The exhibition traces their story from pre-colonial times through westward expansion, the near-destruction of the herds, and today’s growing restoration and rematriation efforts.

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He Xi Chasing Fish
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From Sea to Shining Sea: Wildlife Above & Below the Waves

Through August 23, 2026

Displayed in the King Gallery, From Sea to Shining Sea: Wildlife Above & Below the Waves celebrates the rich diversity of aquatic life across the continent—from freshwater rivers and wetlands to coastal shores and open seas.

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What People Are Saying
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"I have been to Europe multiple times—studied art in so many places—never saw anything so fantastic as this! Stunning and jaw-dropping, thank you!"
— Maggie A.
"Thank you for this glorious dedication to our "wild" life and human connection. Moving, emotional, and informative, with beauty within it all. "
— Lynne R.
"Architecturally stunning, thoughtful, interesting, educational, superb art and exhibits. A memorable experience. Thank you!"
— Susan B.
"I've never seen anything like this and I'm grateful to have stopped by. The extinct bird display nearly made me cry with the bird calls. Beautiful!!! "
— Marley S.
"This museum was so intimate and inspiring. As a former art teacher, the children's center made me want to have a classroom again!"
— Ellan M.
"Thank you for making this stop fun for my five kids. It kept them engaged, which allowed me to enjoy looking too!"
— Katie V.
"Super cool experience, I enjoyed the paintings and the thick paint textures! It made me feel like I was immersed in the natural environment!"
— Carmel G.
"BEST Museum I've ever been to! The hands on and special spaces for children were amazing and drew young people of all ages! Great job!"
— Judy G.