Call of the wild

Nation's Business, Feb, 1997 by Michael Barrier

I would like to open a gallery featuring wildlife art. Where can I get a list of artists and sculptors as well as information on trade shows? K.L., Des Moines, Iowa

We could find no active organization devoted exclusively to wildlife artists. However, several leads were provided by Pamela Harr, a sculptor who, with her husband, Harvey Rattey--also a sculptor--operates the Bridger Bronze Gallery, in Glendive, Mont. The gallery is devoted to sculptures of wildlife and various Western subjects.

She suggests that one of the best ways to get in touch with such artists is through their advertisements in art magazines. A likely source is Wildlife Art, P.O. Box 16246, Minneapolis, Minn. 55416-0246; 1-800 221-6547. A year's subscription is$32.95.

Harr also recommends the 29th annual C.M. Russell Auction of Original Western Art, in Great Falls, Mont. The event--named in honor of the Western artist of the early 20th century--draws artists from around the country, including some who specialize in wildlife. This year's auction will be held at the Heritage Inn in Great Falls on two nights, but the activities surrounding the auction will cover four days, March 19-22.

Only 250 pieces chosen by a jury will be auctioned, but Heidi Martincic, the publicity chairwoman for the auction, says that artists who pay for booths will have many other pieces on exhibit. For more information about the show, call the Great Falls Advertising Federation at (406) 761-6453.

Similar art shows are held in other parts of the country, if not necessarily on the same scale, check with local arts organizations. One show, the Southern Wildlife Exposition, will be held Feb. 14-16 in Charleston, S.C. For information, contact the exposition at 211 Meeting St. Charleston, S.C. 29401; (803) 723-1748.