2023 SEWE - Thursday / Friday

Artist Julie Jeppsen painting at Thursday VIP Preview

The Thursday afternoon VIP Preview Sale at Charleston Place allows all the artists from out of state to catch their breath after setting up for a three-day weekend sale. The crowds are light on this day, and it was a perfect opportunity to visit with one's favorite artist, or to perhaps seek out this year's featured artist. The first artwork sold at SEWE happens Thursday afternoon, and then later at the Black Tie Gala that night. 

Sheep Dog Herding demo at Brittlebank Park

Day One of the 2023 Southeastern Wildlife Expo on Friday saw TV star Forrest Gallante bring his inspirational message of conservation to SEWE fans at Gaillard Auditorium for the first time. He gave a lengthy introduction of his career since he is originally from Africa, and then chose to live in California and work as a biologist at the Channel Islands. A chance encounter on TV show Naked and Afraid gave him the idea to commit to a media campaign in order to raise awareness, and he now stars in multiple TV shows. Inside the Gaillard Auditorium is the SEWE Marketplace with lots of vendors with unique crafted items for sale.

Selfies at the SEWE sign are very popular

Breezy and sunny conditions for the first half of the day were great for strolling between the Gaillard Auditorium and Marion Square Park. The Square hosts the conservation village, all of the canine rescue organizations, the Cooking Tent, and the Center for Birds of Prey demos. A large crowd of youth were present on Friday at the Park, and viewing the snapping turtle with the Turtle Survival Alliance was a big draw for them. Food vendors and a picnic area make the Square a great place to linger during SEWE.

2023 Featured Print by Ryan Kirby

Some rain did fall in the afternoon, but the dock dogs competition goes on rain or shine, while the rest of the Brittlebank crowd thinned out early due to the dreary and windy weather. No doubt they were heading back out for oyster roasts and other social outings Friday night.

To view past blog entries from the SEWE Gala click on 2019 -  2018- 2017 - 2016 - 2015- 2014 - 2013,  2012, 2011, 2010, or 2009. 

To view past blog entries from Friday at SEWE click on 2018 - 2016 - 2015 - 2014 - 2013 - 2012 - 2011 - 2010 - 2009