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Fight or Flight

January 24, 2015 - August 29, 2015

From imagined battles between tigers and antelope by Antoine-Louis Barye to running pronghorn by Bob Kuhn, this exhibition explores animal instincts via animal paintings, prints, and sculptures from the National Museum of Wildlife Art’s permanent collection – and presents an opportunity to look at theories of animal instinct and the techniques used by artists to convey motion.

STRETCHING CANADA GOOSE 1983, Oil on Board ROBERT BATEMAN Canada, 1930 -
Robert F. Kuhn, Cruisin’ 1980. Acrylic on Board. National Museum of Wildlife Art Collection. © Estate of Robert F. Kuhn.
Eadweard Muybridge, Buffalo walking, 1887. Silver Gelatin photograph on linen steel-plate paper. JKM Collection®, National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Carl Brenders, Without Warning, 1998. Gouache and Watercolor on Illustration Board. Gift of Jim and Maggie Hunt, National Museum of Wildlife Art. © Carl Brenders.
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.