Skip to main content John James Audobon, Pinnated Grous

Reframing “Birds of America:” Conversations on Audubon

April 8, 2022 - July 30, 2022

John James Audobon, Pinnated Grous, Tetrao Cupido, Males 1, 2, Female 3, Lilium Superibum, 1834From 1827-1838 John James Audubon published Birds of America, which is generally considered to be among the finest examples of prints illustrating avian life in America. This exhibition Reframing “Birds of America:” Conversations on Audubon explores these historic prints with a contemporary lens. The FAC show, curated by Colorado College students, fosters appreciation of the prints while highlighting other voices in conversation with Audubon’s work. Reframing “Birds of America:” Conversations on Audubon comes from the Fine Arts Center’s collection of several hundred Audubon prints and includes rarely seen examples.

The selection of prints on display not only bear witness to the natural beauty of America’s birds, but also offer rich opportunities to reflect on current debates and issues around Audubon and his Birds of America. The exhibition explores the problematic context in which the prints were created, including questions of ecology, gender roles, naturalists’ practices, and colonial history. Interrogating Audubon’s legacy allows for a better understanding of the dynamics of race and power in art and natural history. Through a multi-vocal approach, the show foregrounds the viewer as an active participant in creating meaning.

Mobile guide available in the museum to enrich the experience and for further exploration about the objects.


In the News

Bird Call: New Colorado Springs exhibit features Audubon prints, explores controversial ornithologist —The Gazette

Student-curated Fine Arts Center exhibit on John James Audubon’s “Birds of America” Takes Wing –Colorado College News


Images: John James Audubon, Pinnated Grouse, Tetrao Cupido, Males 1, 2, Female 3, Lilium Superibum (detail), 1834
Collection of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, FA 1958.6.86, Gift of the Estate of Phillip B. Stewart

John James Audubon, Phoenicopterus Ruber, Linn. Old Male (Greater Flamingo), 1838
Collection of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College, FA 1958.6.173, Gift of the Estate of Phillip B. Stewart

Details

Hours

Wednesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Admission includes entrance to all other galleries in the museum.

Tickets

FAC MembersNon-member adultsMilitary & Seniors (55+)Students & Teachers
Free$10$5Free

Sponsors

The Anschutz Foundation Gazette Charities Colorado Creative Industries