WVDNR Seeks Paintings for 2014 Wildlife Calendar

            An electronic image of each entry capable of being sized at 14½ inches wide by 11½ inches high at 300 dpi is preferred, but a lower resolution image or 35-mm color slide will be accepted. Artists may send in multiple entries.

            “This is our 29th calendar and it offers a wonderful opportunity for artists to feature their work. Besides distribution in West Virginia, our calendars are enjoyed by people all over the United States,” said Taylor.

            Paintings may depict popular game and fish species, or feature the state’s lesser-known animals such as snakes, frogs, turtles, salamanders, bats, songbirds, small mammals and nongame fish. 

            Artists are reminded that the calendar format is horizontal, with measurements of 14 inches wide by 11 inches high, and should keep this ratio in mind when creating paintings.  Paintings not chosen in previous years may be resubmitted. 

            “Just because the artwork is not selected one year doesn’t mean it will not be selected in the future,” said Taylor. “Often, there are several submissions of a particular species and only one can be used in a given year.

            “We encourage all artists, especially those from West Virginia, to submit their work,” said Taylor. A $100 prize is awarded for each painting chosen, with $500 going to the artist whose artwork is picked for the cover. Paintings are chosen based on overall composition and quality, along with anatomical and contextual accuracy. The quality of the electronic image or submitted slide is very important for judging the artwork. 

            To obtain 2014 calendar art rules or to purchase a 2013 calendar, please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Wildlife Calendar Art, P.O. Box 67, Elkins, WV 26241, phone 304-637-0245. Electronic images should be emailed to: Jerry.R.Shinn@wv.gov.