VISIONS OF NATURE

The winners of the Wildlife Artist of the Year competition 2024, from David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation

Wings

Radka Kirby Tesaro

Winner: Wings

Medium: oil on canvas

Judge's comments: "A true expression of life on the water in Africa. The flow and balance are masterful. Line, colour, and form, the perfect storytelling framework."

KNOWN AS THE 'OSCARS OF wildlife art', Wildlife Artist of the Year celebrates how art can be used as a platform to spark challenging conversations about the incredible species that share our planet. A passion project of celebrated wildlife artist David Shepherd, it and his legacy are now stewarded by David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation.

This year was the 15th of the contest, with 1,297 entries received from more than 801 artists representing 46 countries. It's a truly international competition that inspires both amateur and professional artists to engage audiences on crucial themes of conservation through a variety of mediums and concepts. This year's overall winner was Sarah Lake, for her stunning papercut of an elephant's trunk (see overleaf).

All income from entry fees and a minimum of 50 per cent of the proceeds from artwork sales funds vital species-saving work across Africa and Asia. This year, the contest raised an impressive £77,000.

The 2025 competition opens for entries on 6th January roll on next year!

Jara

Sarah Lake

Overall Winner Medium: papercut