J.N. "Ding" Darling

Traveling Exhibit on “Ding” Darling

The “Hidden Works of Jay N. ‘Ding’ Darling” — pioneering conservationist and cartoonist — are on display at the Ward Museum for Waterfowl Art in Salisbury, Maryland. This rare and insightful look into some of Darling’s most personal works is co-curated by documentary filmmaker Sam Koltinsky and supported in part by The Wildlife Society.

Ding Darling was a prominent figure in the conservation movement and, in 1938, TWS gave him honorary membership in recognition of his significant contribution to wildlife stewardship. He also was the first recipient of the Aldo Leopold Memorial Award in 1950 — TWS’ highest honor for distinguished service to wildlife conservation.

Explore rare artifacts including a selection of  cartoon plates that were originally printed in the Des Moines Register, where Darling worked as a reporter and cartoonist from the early to mid 1900s. “To explore and experience the ‘Hidden Works’  allows a brief glimpse into ‘Ding’ Darling — a modern-day Renaissance man,” Koltinsky said. “I am honored to share years of research and treasures that have been stewarded by others.”

Select items from the exhibit along with new discoveries will be on display at The Wildlife Society’s upcoming annual conference in Winnipeg, Canada. Don’t miss it!

Header Image: Conservation pioneer J.N. "Ding" Darling.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Darling's grandson Christopher "Kip" Koss