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TINY: Charismatic Minifauna from the Permanent Collection

October 20, 2017 - April 15, 2018

Throughout the history of human and animal relations, charismatic megafauna and other large species have received considerable attention. As profoundly significant to the human psyche as large animals are, they are not the only creatures to appear in works of art. Small animals, such as rodents, amphibians, and insects, are also important to our visual culture. Whether they are rendered as accurate, scientific specimens or as anthropomorphized caricatures, small animals are as informative about our own culture as they are about the natural world around us. Two noted artists planned for inclusion are William Kuhnert, who drew finches, parrots, and small falcons, and Pablo Picasso, who created imaginative prints of insects, lizards, and spiders.

“TINY: Charismatic Minifauna from the Permanent Collection” is generously sponsored by:

Nancy & Dick Collister

Stephanie Brennan
Michael Coleman Skunk
Michael Coleman (American, b. 1946), "Skunk," n.d. Oil on board. 11 x 14 inches. JKM Collection®, National Museum of Wildlife Art. © Michael Coleman.
Two Bank Mice John James Audubon
John James Audubon (American, b. Haiti, 1785 – 1851), "Two Bank Mice," 1846. Watercolor and Pencil on paper. 12 3/4 x 18 5/8 inches. JKM Collection®, National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Dwayne Harty Pika
Dwayne Harty (Canadian, born 1957), "Pika," 2011. Oil on Canvas. 18 × 24 inches. Gift of the Artist and the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Hays Pond Snipes and Frog
William Jacob Hays Sr. (American, 1830 – 1875), "The Pond: Snipes and Frog," 1862. Oil on canvas. 8 x 12 inches. Gift of the 1999 Collectors Circle, National Museum of Wildlife Art.
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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.
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— 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!"
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