An Isle of Wight artist has been shortlisted for an international award.
Zoologist Jen Parker, who owns Wild Lines, in Newport, has been shortlisted for a renowned art competition and exhibition often referred to as the ‘Oscars of international wildlife art.’
Each year, the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year Award welcomes entries from hundreds of talented artists worldwide, in a celebration of outstanding wildlife art.
Jen has a passion for art and conservation and creates unique wildlife illustrations for people who are passionate about the natural world.
This week (Monday) Jen's pen drawing, ‘The Prodigy’, has been shortlisted by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation judges for Wildlife Artist of the Year 2021, in association with BBC Wildlife Magazine.
The selected piece features a charming young Brazilian tapir. As ecological engineers, tapirs change the structure of plant communities and play an important role in dispersing seeds over long distances. Today, three species of tapir live in South America and one in Asia.
Populations of each species have reduced by more than 30 per cent over the last 30 years or so – a minuscule proportion of their 20-million-year history. Following years of research to learn more about these elusive mammals, conservation efforts are focused primarily on restoring habitat and reducing hunting.
Jen said:
"I am delighted to have been chosen as a finalist for the renowned competition, which always features an amazing variety of work. There were more than 2,300 entries this year; I am humbled to know that my tapir will be part of the exhibition and support wildlife conservation initiatives across Africa and Asia.
“I see the juvenile tapir as a symbol of optimism for wildlife in a world in crisis. Now more than ever, we need hope that together we can protect and restore our natural world. I hope that the sparkle in his eye is passed on to the viewer as we look towards a bright and biodiverse future!”
To stay up to date with The Prodigy’s journey, you can follow Wild Lines on Instagram (@wildlines.art) or Facebook (WildLinesArtwork).
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