Wild Now.
Wild Forever.

The Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) is a celebration of the great outdoors through fine art, live entertainment and special events. It's where artists, craftsmen, collectors and sporting enthusiasts come together to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and connect through a shared passion for wildlife.

A Celebration To Preserve A Way Of Life

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, our mission is to...

  • Showcase the nation's finest wildlife art
  • Create awareness for the conservation of wildlife and the environment
  • Positively influence wildlife and nature education
  • Impact the local and statewide economies through increased tourism

The culmination of our work happens every February in Charleston, South Carolina. The largest event of its kind in the U.S., SEWE promises attendees unforgettable experiences as we gather to share our collective love for wildlife and nature and recognize our role in protecting them for future generations.

Our mission to preserve the wild inspires everything we do at SEWE. It is the foundation of our event, the integrity of our conservation promise and the creativity behind our wildlife art.

So together, let's keep the world wild. Now and forever.

Major Milestones

1983

First SEWE

The first Southeastern Wildlife Exposition took place in February of 1983, with approximately 100 exhibitors and 5,000 attendees. The Exposition now brings in an estimated 40,000+ attendees each year.

1986

Governor’s Cup

SEWE receives the Governor's Cup for Outstanding Tourist Event.

1987

Board of Directors Formed

The first Board of Directors was formed in 1987.

1987

New SEWE Headquarters

The Omni Hotel opens as SEWE Headquarters.

1987

Top Twenty Events in the Southeast

SEWE is named one of the "Top Twenty Events in the Southeast".

1988

New Executive Director

James A. Huggins is named Executive Director of SEWE.

1993

42,000 Attendees

SEWE attendance hits a record 42,000.

1996

501 c3 Status

Formed not-for-profit and SEWE gained its 501 c.3 status.

1996

Omni Hotel Becomes Charleston Place

The Omni Hotel becomes Charleston Place.

1997

First Annual Ducks Unlimited Oyster Roast

The first year of the Ducks Unlimited annual oyster roast during SEWE weekend - one of the biggest DU fundraising events in the country.

1998

Kids for Conservation

SEWE started the Kids for Conservation (KFC) youth art program.

2000

Busch Wildlife

The first year Busch Wildlife presented at SEWE.

2002

SEWE’s Economic Impact: $63.8 Million

Center for Business Research announces $63.8 million total economic impact from SEWE according to a Visitor Profile Survey.

2003

First Ever Fall Soiree

SEWE hosts the first Fall Soiree in October.

2004

Jack Hanna Comes to SEWE

Jack Hanna made his SEWE debut.

2007

Taking Over Charleston

SEWE expanded to Brittlebank Park and the Charleston Riverview Hotel.

2008

DockDogs® Debut

First year DockDogs® came to SEWE at Brittlebank Park.

2012

Junior Duck Stamp

SEWE took over the role as administrator of the South Carolina Junior Duck Stamp Program, a federal youth art contest.

2021

SEWE 2021 Cancellation

The first time in SEWE history the event had to be cancelled due to a global pandemic.

1983
1986
1987
1987
1987
1988
1993
1996
1996
1997
1998
2000
2002
2003
2004
2007
2008
2012
2021

Our Impact

Each year, SEWE aims to contribute to the local, regional and state economies while promoting wildlife art and nature conservation. SEWE's impact on Charleston and the state continues to grow, as does its popularity. Each year, our event generates an estimated $33 million in economic impact; it provides the public with easy and affordable access to wildlife and nature conservation programs; it increases awareness about the need to protect our natural environment; and, it celebrates our collective love for wildlife and nature.

SEWE Staff &
Board of Directors

Get to know the passionate people working behind the scenes at SEWE.

Meet the Team

Our Supporters

Fellow Champions Of
Wildlife Art & Conservation