Avis Marvelous: Ornithology on the Western Frontier

The Victor Valley Museum is showcasing “Avis Marvelous: Ornithology on the Western Frontier,” an exhibition that explores the work of notable avian artists who documented the birds of North America during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The artworks are a collection of 50 historic engravings featuring a variety of birds ranging from the Columbia Magpie Jay to the Black-chinned Hummingbird, and Mountain Bluebird.

As 19th century reproduction technology improved, avian art became widespread and some artists became household names. John James Audubon, a contributor of the paintings, said, “I know that I am no scholar, but I am aware that no man living knows better than I do the habits of our birds; no man living has studied them as much as I have done.”

The Victor Valley Museum is located at 11873 Apple Valley Rd., in Apple Valley. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (child ages 6 to 12). Children five and under and museum members are admitted free. Parking is free and the museum is accessible to persons with disabilities.

The exhibit closes at Victor Valley Museum on Oct. 27, 2024