Art and the Animal: The Society of Animal Artists
Through May 25, 2008
Art and the Animal traveling exhibition has been one of the favorites of visitors to this Surprise Museum. The Society of Animal Artists, a global organization comprised of members who perennially produce the best animal art in the world organizes this international show of artists each year.
The mission of The Society of Animal Artists is to promote excellence in the portrayal of animals, domestic and/or wild, in art. The Society was founded in 1960. Over the past 45 years, works created by members of The Society of Animal Artists have established new standards of artistic excellence in fine art. Society of Animal Artists ART AND THE ANIMAL Annual Exhibitions and Touring Exhibitions, have been featured at more than 50 venues including museums and zoos, and art, cultural and science centers throughout North America.
The general membership of the Society of Animal Artists is made up of its Artist Members who, as its voting membership class, control and participate in the Society’s functions and goals. Artist members of the SAA are accepted through the approval of the membership jury, which meets twice a year. Each fall, the Society holds its annual membership exhibition. Locations of annual exhibition are varied to afford artists wide exposure and audiences and collectors opportunities for viewing throughout the continent. Artworks in the annual exhibition may also tour to prestigious venues through the ART AND THE ANIMAL tour.
Tom Altenburg, John Banovich, Francis Sweet and Nicholas Wilson are some of the familiar names in this year’s exhibition. John Banovich shows a particularly interesting depiction of elephants against trees that dwarf the giant beasts and render them toy-like and almost insignificant. Its an intriguing approach, contrary to our usual expectations regarding these majestic animals. Bronzes include everything from great horned owls and penguins to lions and bullfrogs.
Full color catalogues will be available for this exhibition and on sale in the Museum Store during the run of the show.
