National Museum of Wildlife Art Announces Results of the 36th Annual Western Visions® Art Show + Sale

The exhibition for the 36^th Annual Western Visions Art Show + Sale opened on September 9, with over 170 pieces on display. In-person tickets for the Show + Sale night on September 14 sold out prior to the event, with a combined total of nearly 400 people participating in person and online. Nearly 80 artists were also in attendance, one of the highlights of the event. “Western Visions has always been a unique opportunity for visitors and collectors to meet contemporary wildlife artists. Not only do they have the chance to see their work inside the Museum, but they also form valuable connections and relationships,” says Museum Director Steve Seamons. The artwork sold benefited both the Museum and participating artists, and awards were given. This was the second year that the event included a live auction component. Artwork sales continued through the close of the exhibition on October 1, 2023, and totaled over half a million dollars for the event, with 116 pieces selling. Western Visions is the National Museum of Wildlife Art’s largest and longest-running fundraiser and is one of the signature events of the Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival.

Featuring a wide range of traditional and contemporary artworks and showcasing both paintings and sculptures, the show and sale included more than 170 artists. In addition to the 34 live auction pieces, the sale featured 140 small format works available via an intent to purchase draw. Jason Brooks served as the auctioneer for the live auction, with bidders participating both in person and online.

This year’s show included the addition of two new awards. The People’s Choice Award was split into two categories–visitors cast votes for their favorite two-dimensional work and three-dimensional work. Also new this year was the Excellence for Artistic Merit Award, which was determined by a panel of art experts and awarded to a piece that displayed overall excellence. Panelists considered medium, style, composition, subject matter, and technique. “With over 170 participating artists, the caliber of work is truly amazing,” says Director of Program and Events, Michelle Dickson. “Adding these two awards provided more opportunities to recognize the artists for their impactful contributions, and particularly made room for sculptures to shine with the addition of the People’s Choice Award (3D).” The 2023 Western Visions award winners are:

• Museum Purchase Award: Jhenna Quinn Lewis, When You Cannot Stay
• People’s Choice Award (3D): Paul Rhymer, Merle’s Moondance
• People’s Choice Award (2D): Bruce K. Lawes, Frozen for the Moment
• Red Smith Award (Artist’s Choice): William Alther, Solace
• Excellence for Artistic Merit Award: Steve Kestrel, Shadow of Doubt

Western Visions was generously sponsored by presenting sponsors the Mays Family Foundation and Richard C. Adkerson Family Foundation, as well as Daidone Electric Inc, Jackson Hole Jewelry Co, Marcia and Mike Taylor / Taylor Foundation, Bomb Sommelier, Ethel M Chocolates, Jackson Hole Art Auction, Palate, Robert S. and Grayce B. Kerr Foundation, Maggie & Dick Scarlett, Atelier Ortega, Big Sky Brewing Co., Barbara Carlsberg, Creative Coverings, Creative Curiosity, Gallatin Wealth Management, Grand View Spa at Snow King Resort, GraVoc, Jackson Hole Insurance, JH Flower Boutique, Jane & Steve Malashock, Schmidt’s Custom Framing, Shari Brownfield Fine Art, Katherine & Jack Shook, Simpson Gallagher Gallery, and Willow Street.