Animal artworks featured in Great Plains museum

· 2 min read

Animal artworks featured in Great Plains museum

"Prairie Pals" by Charles M. Russell, posthumous cast (1960) from original wax model (1903), bronze.
"Prairie Pals" by Charles M. Russell, posthumous cast (1960) from original wax model (1903), bronze.

All types of Great Plains animals from bison to horses and cranes to dogs will appear in sculpture, prints, photographs and paintings in the new exhibition “Collection Critters,” which runs Nov. 3 through Feb. 16 at the Great Plains Art Museum.

Viewers will encounter several species of interest to conservation. Wildlife art can serve as a catalyst for discussion about conservation that goes beyond simply a documentary or aesthetic practice. Loss of habitat is the single greatest threat to remaining populations of pronghorns, wolves, bison, mountain lions and prairie chickens. These animals typify species severely threatened in contemporary times or ones that were once on the verge of extinction, but have since rebounded to sustainable levels.

“The show is a great opportunity to see animals from an artist’s perspective,” curator Melynda Seaton said.

“Collection Critters” includes works by world-recognized artists of the American West such as Karl Bodmer, John James Audubon and Charles M. Russell. Several Nebraska artists, including Cliff Hollestelle and Ben Darling, are also featured.

The exhibition’s opening reception will take place during Lincoln’s First Friday Art Walk from 5 to 7 p.m. Nov. 3. Food and drink will be served. The family-friendly night will include an animal matching activity with prizes.

The Great Plains Art Museum, 1155 Q St., is open to the public 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free. Free guided tours are available. Please request tours via the museum’s website here by completing a tour request form.

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