Johno Prascak, National Aviary
Johno Prascak, National Aviary
Johno Prascak, National Aviary

National Aviary

November 6 – 8
Various times

Ready to put a bird on it?

After a decade-long hibernation, Wings & Wildlife is again taking flight at the Aviary. A celebration of all things avian, the three-day art exhibition, marketplace and bird-themed benefit bash returns just in time for holiday shopping.

Johno Prascak, Running Rooster with Blue Gill
Johno Prascak, Running Rooster with Blue Gill

New this year the jury-based selection process for the art show, which features 46 local and national wildlife artists working in a range of media–from oil paint, paper and metal, to photography, ceramics and jewelry. Artists–who hail from as far away as Colorado–will share and sell handmade works that explore nature, wildlife and a wide range of common and rare bird species.

If you’re looking for a statement piece for that bare wall above your couch or a wedding gift for that creative cousin, this event has you covered, because all works will be available for sale, with prices ranging from $15 to $1,000.

One highlight of the newly resurrected event will be the vibrant sand and enamel paintings created by Wings & Wildlife’s 2015 featured artist, Johno Prascak, whose works even feature some of the Aviary’s most iconic and beloved birds. Prascak, who met his wife at the Northside destination, is known for his bold depictions of legendary Burgh landmarks, people and icons, as well as his textured depictions of the area’s rich flora and fauna.

Ashley Cecil, Passenger Pigeon on Mint
Ashley Cecil, Passenger Pigeon on Mint

Want a sneak peek? Don’t miss the Black Tie Soirée and Benefit Auction on Friday, November 6th, which will also feature strolling musical entertainment, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Bird watchers will meet the artists, be the first to see the avian art, enjoy after-hours access to the lush tropical exhibits and bid on selected pieces and avian encounters.

Proceeds from the Wings & Wildlife art show will support the National Aviary’s avian medicine, education and conservation programs, which take place both locally and internationally.


Looking for more events this month? Read our 11 Pittsburgh events not to miss in November feature.

Jennifer BaronArts & Entertainment / Jobs Editor

Jennifer has worked at the Mattress Factory, Brooklyn Museum of Art and Dahesh Museum of Art and is co-author of Pittsburgh Signs Project: 250 Signs of Western Pennsylvania. She also is co-coordinator of Handmade Arcade. Musically, she is in a band called The Garment District and is a founding member of Brooklyn's The Ladybug Transistor.