FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 11, 2026 

Easton, Maryland — The Waterfowl Festival is proud to announce the distinguished roster of exhibiting artists selected for the 55th Annual Waterfowl Festival, taking place November 13–15, 2026.  Representing the finest talent in wildlife, sporting, and maritime art, this year’s group of artists reflects the Festival’s long-standing commitment to the celebration of the natural world.

More than fifty nationally and internationally recognized painters, sculptors, carvers, and mixed-media artists will showcase their work throughout Festival weekend, offering collectors and visitors a unique opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their creative processes, and acquire original works inspired by wildlife, sporting traditions, and the landscapes that define our outdoor heritage.

“Choosing fifty-five artists was intentional,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director. “For fifty-five years, proceeds from art sales have helped fund projects that advance our mission. This exceptional group of artists captures both the beauty and fragility of the natural world we have worked to protect, reflecting through their remarkable talent and dedication the very values at the heart of our organization.” 

The 2026 artist lineup includes returning Festival favorites alongside new exhibitors, representing a wide range of artistic styles and mediums. Selected artists include: Sue deLearie Adair, Sandy Alanko, Al Barker, Jill Basham, Jocelyn Beatty, Mike Bonner, Ray Brown, Randy Conner, Richard Clifton, Kim Diment, Timothy Donovan, Lori Dunn, Mark Dziewior, John Eiseman, Lois Engberg, Ned Ewell, Wilhelm Goebel, Jim Green, Carol Heiman-Green, Matthew Hillier, Laura Hopkins, Bernie Houston, Al Jordan, David Kiehm, Yelena Lamm, Sharon Lee, Jason Lyons, Jeffrey Mathias, Walter Matia, Cory McLaughlin, Kelly McNeil, Terry Miller, Scott Penegar, Clayton Pennell, Volodymyr Piven, Mary Pritchard, Julia Purinton, Don Rambadt, Christine Rapa, Paul Rhymer, Larry Ringgold, Steve Roger, Julia Rogers, Susan Fay Schauer, Joe Seme, Kim Shaklee, David Orrin Smith, Richard Snyder, Scott Suriano, Nancy Tankersley, Eric Tardif, David Turner, Mary Veiga, Keith Whitelock, and Bruce Woodward. Full roster, images and photos can be found on the festival website here: https://waterfowlfestival.org/exhibiting-artists/

Three Selected as Festival’s Featured Artists

For the first time three Featured Artists were commissioned to create special works to showcase the spirit of the festival.  Ray Brown, Randy Conner and  Paul Rhymer will unveil these pieces during the festival’s popular Premier Night party. The celebration will begin in the historic Tidewater Inn at 4 pm on November 12, 2026. 

Art, Conservation, and Community

For more than five decades, the Waterfowl Festival has served as one of the nation’s premier destinations for wildlife and sporting art. The Festival’s artist program continues to attract collectors and enthusiasts from across the country while supporting the Festival’s broader mission of conservation, education, and cultural preservation.

“One of the things that makes the Waterfowl Festival so special is the caliber of the artists showcased in our fine art pavilions,” said Tracy Garrett, Art committee co-chair and festival board member. “Our 55th anniversary lineup represents extraordinary talent across multiple disciplines and traditions. We are thrilled to welcome these artists to Easton and provide visitors with an opportunity to experience their work firsthand.”

Throughout the weekend, artists will be available in the PNC Art Pavilions to meet attendees, discuss their work, and share the inspiration behind the pieces they bring to Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Each artist will have pieces for sale, allowing attendees to take home an inspirational work while supporting the mission of the festival. 

For more information, visit waterfowlfestival.org or follow updates on social media. ###

About the Waterfowl Festival

Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.

The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen.