Three original oil paintings by renowned wildlife artist Terry Redlin are making their way back to the Redlin Art Center in Watertown, South Dakota, marking a significant homecoming for artworks that were sold during the artist's early career in the 1980s. The acquisition represents a meaningful addition to the museum's collection, as these original pieces will be displayed alongside prints that have been on exhibit for years.

Julie Ranum, executive director of the Redlin Art Center, expressed excitement about finally being able to showcase the original works rather than just reproductions. During the early 1980s, Terry Redlin was just beginning to establish himself as a professional artist and needed to sell many of his original oil paintings to support his family and make a living. These three paintings, all completed before 1985, date from the period before Redlin officially launched his career as a wildlife artist.

Ranum provided details about which specific paintings will now be permanently housed at the center, though she was particularly enthusiastic about the acquisition of one piece in particular. The executive director noted that while prints of these three works have always been on display at the museum, this marks the first time visitors will be able to view the actual original paintings that came directly from Redlin's easel.

The timing of these acquisitions is historically significant, as all three paintings were created during Redlin's formative years as an artist, before he achieved widespread recognition in 1985. This period represents a crucial time in the artist's development, when he was still finding his distinctive style and building the foundation for what would become a highly successful 30-year career.

Since the Redlin Art Center first opened its doors in 1997, a total of 34 original paintings have found their way back to the institution, representing a growing collection of the artist's authentic works. This ongoing effort to reacquire Redlin's original pieces demonstrates the center's commitment to preserving and displaying the artist's legacy in its most authentic form.

The successful acquisition of these three new paintings was made possible through the generous support of the Watertown Area Community Foundation and Charles Redlin, Terry's son. Their collaboration ensured that these important works could return to their spiritual home in Watertown, where they can be appreciated by art lovers and Redlin enthusiasts from around the world.

Throughout his prolific 30-year career, Terry Redlin created a total of 214 original artworks, making each recovered piece a valuable addition to the center's growing collection. The return of these three paintings not only enriches the museum's offerings but also provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Redlin's early artistic vision in its original form, complete with the texture, brushwork, and subtle details that can only be appreciated when viewing the actual paintings rather than reproductions.