2016 SEWE Gala at Belmond Charleston Place Hotel

Kelly Parrish, Bill Tuten, Duane Parrish and Stella Tuten
enjoy the Wild Life found at the SEWE Gala

2016 SEWE Featured artist Kyle Sims with wife Joylene

The 34th Southeastern Wildlife Exposition was ushered in by the new Mayor of Charleston when John Tecklenburg stood at the podium to welcome the VIP patrons and top-tier wildlife artists to town. This black-tie gala and live auction brings all of the 2016 featured artists together in the Grand Hall at Belmond Charleston Place for a full evening of fellowship that runs from 7 to 11. Surf and turf catering pleases the hearty crowd with sweet confections also readily available, but the main course for wildlife art lovers is the impressive array of art for sale in the room.

Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg helps to welcome guests

With Valentine's Day looming this is a great night to grab one's sweetie by the arm and saunter down aisle after aisle of paintings, bronzes and wood sculptures. Taking time to speak with the artists about their passion is always a fringe benefit of attending SEWE, and there is a palpable excitement about the entire weekend present on Thursday night's gala. Those who enjoy the sporting life come together for fellowship in their formal wear for this unique and special occasion that includes living wildlife displays that serve to educate everyone about the need for conservation and preservation.

To view past blog entries from the SEWE Gala click on 2015 - 2014 - 2013,  2012, 2011, 2010, or 2009.

Who Dat ?! It's a Barred Owl.