The eleventh annual exhibition of wildlife art at Marwell Wildlife Park proved to be one of the most successful in the society’s history with record sales, record attendance and  for the first time, more than two hundred artists and sculptors entering work into the show. Now recognised as the world’s largest annual exhibition of wildlife art, the eleventh annual exhibition once again demonstrated the popularity of this fantastic event!

Despite some grotty weather on the opening private view evening, attendance exceeded all expectations with Marwell having to open an extra gate to facilitate entrance and Marwell Hall packed to capacity with visitors simultaneously trying to enter the building and marquees by the front and back.

Sophie Stafford, Editor of the BBC Wildlife Magazine officially opened the exhibition with a superb and hilarious speech before presenting both the MIWAS awards and the BBC ‘Wildlife Artist of the Year’ awards to the successful artists and sculptors.

Wildlife artist Neil Allen from Spain won the BBC’s competition first prize of a trip to the Pantanal in Brazil, which was kindly donated by Wildlife Worldwide Holidays. The jazz band entertained the crowds and visitor feedback was truly exceptional.

On the exhibition weekend, the ‘Art Market’ proved once again to be a massive success and was enjoyed by the many visitors and artists alike. A flurry of sales of original works, prints, cards and photographs took place and many guests commented on how they enjoyed meeting the artists and sculptors in person.

The magnificent exhibition catalogue was fronted by the amazing picture called ‘Contemplate’ by Natalie Mascall of an Orangutan and many artists biographies could be enjoyed inside. (Still a few available for sale through this website!!) An absolutely hu-uge thanks goes to all the individuals who visited, helped or exhibited in this truly amazing exhibition!

Pip McGarry
Chairman, MIWAS.