“THE BIRDS OF AMERICA” Come to Life at NSLM Written by Diane Helentjaris | Images courtesy of the National Sporting Library & Museum
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his year, dovetailed exhibits at the National Sporting Library & Museum will offer an unprecedented experience to muse-
umgoers and nature lovers. In “Intrepid Audubon: The Birds of America,” a first edition of John James Audubon’s “The Birds of America” will be on display in the museum. The exhibit will focus
on the oversized bound folios, with each of the four volumes open to strategic pages. An interactive touch screen will give access to all images. Other associated materials, including an original copper plate used to print one of the illustrations, will also be on display. A second, complementary exhibit in the Li-
brary, “Drawn to Nature: 300 Years of Natural History Illustration,” will detail the development of the area of study leading up to Audubon. Both have been created in partnership with the Oak Spring Garden Foundation in Upperville, VA. “The Birds of America” plays an unrivaled Birds | Page 31
“Virginian Partridge,” 1830, John James Audubon (American, 1785–1851). Hand-colored engraving, 24 ⅜ x 36 inches. Gift of the 2014 Collectors Circle, National Museum of Wildlife Art.
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APRIL 2025