ART FOR CHANGE

Enjoy works from the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Wildlife Artist of the Year competition, in association with BBC Wildlife

Striding On

Emma Swift Animal Behaviour winner | Medium: oil

JUDGE'S COMMENT: This painting is just 'wow'. There was a unanimous vote for this piece with shocking colour and power at the helm. The hunch, gaze and motion of the orangutan is both compelling and haunting.

There is clear emotion and intent with this painting, and the technique is so free and brave it was celebrated by all of the judges.

A perfect balance between expressionist flare and realistic painting - a devotion to articulating the true nature and personality of this animal. Brilliant. Emily Lamb.

BBC Wildlife has teamed up again with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) to support its internationally renowned annual competition and exhibition. This year’s competition attracted 850 artists from 55 countries, with a total of 1,654 artworks entered. The winners, runners-up and highly commended entries have now been chosen and we have a selection for you over the next few pages.

Launched by celebrated wildlife artist and conservationist David Shepherd CBE, Wildlife Artist of the Year epitomises his ‘Art of Survival’ legacy – 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 the wildlife charity.

Since its inception in 2008, the contest has raised over £1.2 million to support vital conservation work across Africa and Asia. Finalists 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.