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The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Altoona is proud to announce Echoes of the Wild: The Wildlife Art of George LaVanish, a major retrospective exhibition celebrating the distinguished career of nationally recognized wildlife artist, illustrator, and publisher George LaVanish.
The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art invites the public to experience the remarkable artistry of one of Pennsylvania's most accomplished wildlife painters in Echoes of the Wild: The Wildlife Art of George LaVanish beginning Friday, Oct. 16, and open through Jan. 17, 2027. There is an open reception on Saturday, Oct. 24 from 6-8 p.m.
For more than 50 years, LaVanish has dedicated his career to portraying the beauty, majesty, and quiet spirit of North America's wildlife. His meticulously detailed paintings capture the essence of Pennsylvania's forests, streams, mountains, and fields, reflecting a lifelong appreciation for nature, conservation, and the rich traditions of the outdoors. His work resonates with hunters, anglers, conservationists, collectors, and art enthusiasts alike through its authenticity, technical excellence, and deep respect for the natural world.
Born in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, in 1953, LaVanish demonstrated exceptional artistic ability from an early age, excelling in drawing and painting throughout his youth. Determined to pursue a career in the visual arts, he attended the Art Institute of Philadelphia, earning an Associate of Science degree in Commercial and Illustration Arts in 1974.
Following graduation, LaVanish began his professional career as a staff artist at Penn State University, where he refined his skills in illustration and graphic design. He later worked as a Senior Illustrator for Raytheon in State College before establishing himself as a freelance illustrator and ultimately founding Wilderness Editions in Tyrone in 1994. Through Wilderness Editions, he continues to produce original wildlife paintings, limited-edition prints, and illustrations that celebrate America's outdoor heritage.
Over the course of his distinguished career, LaVanish has illustrated 12 outdoor books and created countless feature stories and magazine covers for many of the nation's leading hunting, fishing, wildlife, and outdoor publications. His artwork has appeared in Pennsylvania Game News, Pennsylvania Angler, and numerous other respected sporting and wildlife magazines, earning him widespread recognition for his ability to combine artistic realism with an intimate understanding of nature.
His illustrations have also been commissioned by some of the country's most respected conservation organizations, including Pennsylvania Trout Unlimited, the Audubon Society, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Whitetails Unlimited, and numerous regional and national wildlife organizations. His artwork has appeared on commemorative stamps, collector prints, patches, calendars, and special editions celebrating Pennsylvania's outdoor traditions and conservation legacy.
Among his many accomplishments, LaVanish completed four special art projects for President Jimmy Carter, including the celebrated Pennsylvania Trout Unlimited Presidential Edition. He was honored as National Whitetails Unlimited Artist of the Year in 1992, designed the 1999 Pennsylvania Trout Stamp, created the First Mid-Atlantic Audubon Society print, "Autumn Blue," and contributed artwork to the prestigious Safari Club International Collection. His career reflects decades of artistic excellence and an unwavering commitment to preserving the beauty of wildlife through art.
"George LaVanish has spent a lifetime capturing the beauty of Pennsylvania's wildlife with extraordinary realism and heartfelt authenticity," said Jodi Peachey, Site Director of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. "His paintings invite viewers into the quiet moments of nature, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the wildlife and landscapes that define our region. We are honored to present this exhibition celebrating an artist whose work has inspired generations of outdoor enthusiasts, collectors, and conservationists."
Echoes of the Wild will feature a remarkable collection of original paintings highlighting Pennsylvania's native wildlife, sporting traditions, and scenic landscapes. From majestic whitetail deer and graceful waterfowl to woodland creatures and tranquil streams, each work reflects LaVanish's meticulous attention to detail and his enduring reverence for the natural world.
This exhibition offers visitors an opportunity not only to experience extraordinary wildlife art but also to celebrate a Pennsylvania artist whose work has become an important part of the Commonwealth's sporting, conservation, and artistic heritage.
The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is located in the Brett Building at 1210 11th Avenue Altoona, Pa. 16601. The hours of operation are noon to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.
The museum is an accessible facility and is open to the public free of charge. A $5 admission donation is suggested to help support SAMA's free and low-cost educational services, cultural event programming, and regional artistic exhibitions. Limited one-hour street parking is available in front of the museum.
For longer visits, guests are encouraged to use the Altoona Parking Authority garage, free evenings after 5 p.m. and all-day weekends. For more information, visit www.sama-art.org or call (814) 946-4464 or email altoona@sama-art.org.