Organizers of the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition believe that when people feel personally connected to wildlife and wild places, they are far more likely to care about protecting them. SEWE helps to create these connections through wildlife art, “bringing the outdoors indoors in a way that feels emotional and personal, allowing people to connect with nature through creativity and storytelling,” says Meagan Trotta, SEWE marketing and sales director.
Henry Von Genk III, Charleston Splendor, acrylic on canvas, 36 x 26 in.
This year marks SEWE’s 44th edition, bringing downtown Charleston, South Carolina, immersive experiences that include acclaimed wildlife art, live sporting demonstrations, outdoor programming, artisan exhibitors and more. Five major venues will be utilized for the event, broadening the SEWE footprint to include more exhibitors and enhanced programming.
“Collectors will find a broad range of work in SEWE’s Fine Art Gallery,” Trotta adds. “The show features sculpture and painting alongside scratchboard, graphite, feather-crafted art and other specialized mediums. Works range from small to large scale, and include both wildlife and landscape subjects. Styles span traditional realism to more contemporary interpretations, creating a diverse and dynamic gallery experience. There truly is something for every type of collector.”
Jared DuCote, My Favorite Things, oil on canvas, 24 x 36 in.
SEWE also hosts a number of live art demonstrations throughout the weekend. One of the most anticipated is the Quick Draw, Speed Sculpt & Auction, held February 13 at 3 p.m. at Charleston Place. “Artists and sculptors are given one hour to complete a piece live, after which the works are immediately auctioned,” Trotta explains. “It is an exciting, high-energy event that allows attendees to witness the creative process up close.”
Collectors and enthusiasts enjoy the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition.
In addition, a featured artist is selected to create a painting that’s auctioned during SEWE’s Signature Gala & Auction on February 12. This year’s piece, Charleston Splendor, by Henry Von Genk III, can be viewed online at www.sewe.com, at Gallery by SEWE leading up to the show and in Henry’s booth during the event. The imagery is also used for the event’s official poster.
Also find works like the still life piece My Favorite Things and the wildlife image The Quiet Watch by Jared DuCote. “I’m inspired by the natural harmony of color found in the wild—how every hue, texture and shadow complements the next,” DuCote notes. “My goal is to capture that beauty through hyper-realistic detail, preserving the way nature created it. Every feather, ripple and reflection have a story, and I strive to paint it just as it is—honest, vivid and alive.”
Jared DuCote, The Quiet Watch, oil on canvas, 20 x 18 in.
Trotta expresses excitement in welcoming new artists to SEWE, as fresh perspectives bring new energy to the gallery each year. One standout new artist for 2026 is Corey Alston, an accomplished and highly respected basket weaver. “His work is unlike anything we have showcased at SEWE before, and I am especially excited to see how his collection comes to life within the Fine Art Gallery,” Trotta says.
To view a schedule of events, details and ticket information, visit the event website. The 2026 Southeastern Wildlife Exposition will run February 13 through 15 at various venues throughout downtown Charleston. Previous to the public opening, there will be VIP previews and event kick offs, including the VIP Signature Gala & Sale on February 12 from 7 to 11 p.m. —
Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
Various Locations - Charleston, SC
(843) 723-1748, www.sewe.com
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