JACKSON, Wyo. — The Benjamin Mkapa African Wildlife Photography Awards exhibition opens Saturday at the National Museum of Wildlife Art (NMWA) and the museum is hosting a free community event Friday, to celebrate the opening.
In addition to the Benjamin Mkapa African Wildlife Photography Awards exhibition, attendees will also have access to the recently opened exhibition, Transformations: Wildlife in Inuit Art and Culture.
Dubbed “Perspectives Over Pizza + Pinot,” the event is from 5 to 7 p.m. The first 300 attendees can enjoy free pizza from Pinky G’s and complimentary Pinot Noir or Pinot Grigio while exploring the two new exhibitions, which both offer diverse perspectives on art and culture.
Weather permitting, the food and beverages will be served outside at the Museum entrance, with a food truck from Pinky G’s and space heaters available. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly for this portion of the event. Live music will be provided outside by Chanman.
Jackson-based photographer Peter Mangolds is featured in the exhibition and will be in attendance as a special guest, providing insight into his piece in the exhibit.
An exhibition scavenger hunt with kid-friendly and adult versions will be available in the galleries as well. The first 150 participants can win a fun piece of Museum swag.
The Mkapa Awards are presented in partnership with and traveled by the African Wildlife Foundation and Nature’s Best Photography. Kaddu Sebunya, chief executive officer of the African Wildlife Foundation, who was integral in founding this photography competition and the resulting traveling exhibition, will also be in attendance at the event.
In addition to the community opening event on Nov. 3, NMWA will also host an exhibition sneak peek at 11:30 a.m., and exclusive members meet and Greet at 4 p.m. that same day. During the Sneak Peek, Sebunya will give attendees a first look at the exhibition and background on how the award winners were selected. Mangolds will also attend the sneak peeks and meet and greet.
