WINNING ARTS AND MINDS

Enjoy stunning works from this year’s David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Wildlife Artist of the Year competition, in association with BBC Wildlife Magazine.

- 

When BBC Wildlife Magazine teamed up with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) to support its internationally renowned annual competition and exhibition, we knew the standard was going to be high. In the end, there were a whopping 2,307 entries from artists in 70 different countries. The winners, runners-up and highly commended have now been chosen and we have a selection for you over the next few pages.

Since launching in 2008, the annual event has attracted more than 12,500 entries and generated more than £1.2m in sales. Finalists shortlisted are invited to exhibit and sell their artworks as part of an annual exhibition, with 50 per cent of the proceeds from all sales supporting the vital conservation work of DSWF. It also plays an integral role in helping to maintain David Shepherd’s legacy of ‘The Art of Survival’ – a concept on which DSWF was founded. Using the power of art to celebrate wildlife, support awareness and raise vital funds for species protection is at the heart of DSWF.

In these challenging times, DSWF is bringing Wildlife Artist of the Year 2021 to the global stage through an interactive virtual gallery. You will be able to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of wildlife art, from your own home, through the DSWF immersive 3D gallery space from 25 May.

ORCAS, BLACKFISH SOUND

DARREN REES Overall Winner | Medium: Acrylic

JUDGE’S COMMENT: “This remarkable painting by Darren, as always, captures the atmosphere and scale of the environment he paints. The gentleness of the orcas swimming by such a spectacular backdrop reminds us of the beauty of our planet and how vitally important both land and ocean are to our very survival.”