Changing Exhibits

Colorful, iridescent, and multi-textured bird feathers have long been used for ornamentation on clothing; they are featured in art work in a variety of media; and have been used creatively as an artistic medium themselves. This summer’s exhibit in the LaMay Gallery spotlights a variety of artwork interpreting or showcasing feathers—from traditional uses in Native American regalia to modern art featuring intricately cut bird feathers in abstract design.

Fishing flies are designed as bait, to imitate insects and other treats at the end of a fly fisherman’s line. They are made from feathers, fur, and other delicate materials in a dazzling array of colors and textures. They require refined skill to create, and often look to be as much an art form as lure. Get to know the history and art of tied flies in this summer’s Welcome Gallery exhibit at the Ward Museum.

Women have been an important force in the field of carving since its inception. This new exhibit will bring light to the stories of many of wildfowl art’s most influential and inspirational women, from Edna Perdew (Henry, IL) and her work on Illinois river decoys, to Lynn Branson (Courtenay, BC, Canada), the only woman yet to win the World Championship titles – and four times at that! The exhibit will tell the history of women within the field of wildfowl carving beginning at the turn of the 20^th Century through the present.

Experience the life, work, and legacy of 17-time World Champion winner Pat Godin. His work has been displayed in the Ward Museum, the Smithsonian Institution, the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, and in many private collections. Godin has the unique distinction of having won Best in World titles at the Ward World Championship at least once in each of the five decades of the competition’s existence. The exhibit will highlight the incredible work of one of the world’s most decorated carvers.