Wildlife Artists of the Carolinas Exhibition Returns

Wildlife Artists of the Carolinas brings Into the Wild to Wilmington Sept 24–26 at Events on Front, featuring art sales and a raffle for Possumwood.

Wildlife art takes center stage in downtown Wilmington this fall as Wildlife Artists of the Carolinas (WAOTC) brings back its annual Into the Wild exhibition and sale. Now in its fourth year, the show will feature wildlife- and nature-inspired work from artists across the Carolinas, highlighting the region’s flora and fauna through a wide range of mediums.

The 2026 Into the Wild fall exhibition will be held at Events on Front, located at 130 N Front St. The event is free and open to the public.

Event details: dates, location, and hours

Venue: Events on Front, 130 N Front St, Wilmington, NC Dates: September 24–26
Hours:
• Thursday, Sept. 24: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Friday, Sept. 25: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, Sept. 26: 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Reception and awards presentation during Fourth Friday

A reception and awards presentation is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25 from 6:00–9:00 p.m., aligning with Wilmington’s Fourth Friday Gallery Nights. Visitors can explore the exhibit, meet artists, and enjoy the energy of downtown’s monthly arts celebration.

Awards for the exhibition will be judged by Richard “Rick” Conn, a Cape Fear region artist known for metal sculpture and kinetic fabrication, as well as his long-standing support of the local arts community.

What to expect at the exhibition

WAOTC artists work in a variety of styles and formats, including:
• Painting
• Photography
• Mixed media
• Three-dimensional works

The result is a show that appeals to collectors, coastal Carolina nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys art with a strong sense of place.

WAOTC’s mission: wildlife art with a purpose

Wildlife Artists of the Carolinas is a group of artists inspired by the beauty and resilience of the natural world. The organization’s mission connects wildlife art and conservation through:
• Education
• Exhibitions
• Volunteerism
• Experiences

WAOTC also advocates for wildlife in communities throughout the Carolinas.

Fundraiser benefits Possumwood Acres Wildlife Sanctuary

As part of the 2026 Into the Wild show, WAOTC will host a fundraising raffle featuring original artwork donated by member artists. All raffle proceeds will benefit Possumwood Acres Wildlife Sanctuary in Hubert, NC.

Possumwood Acres is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on rehabilitating orphaned or injured wild animals and releasing them back into their native habitats. Representatives from Possumwood are expected to attend the Friday reception, along with an animal ambassador.

A tradition of supporting wildlife rehabilitation

WAOTC exhibitions have a track record of giving back to wildlife-focused organizations. Over the past four years, WAOTC members and patrons have supported groups such as:
• Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter
• Skywatch Bird Rescue
• Wild Horse Ranch
• Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center

Past events have also included wildlife education moments, with rescued animals brought in by handlers to help visitors learn more about local species.

Learn more

For more information about Wildlife Artists of the Carolinas:
• Website: www.waotc.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildlifeartistsnc/
• Instagram: @waotcinc