Tag Archives: wildlife artist

I’m thrilled to share some wonderful news!

My wildlife oil painting, Macca, featuring a beautiful Tasmanian Green Rosella, has been selected as a Finalist in the internationally acclaimed Wild Heart Gallery – Masters of Wildlife Art 2026 competition.

To have my work recognised alongside talented wildlife artists from around the world is both humbling and incredibly exciting. As an Australian birdlife artist, my passion has always been to celebrate the remarkable beauty, character and diversity of our native birds, and it is an honour to see Australian wildlife represented on an international stage.

Meet Macca

The inspiration for this painting was a magnificent male Tasmanian Green Rosella whose brilliant plumage immediately caught my eye. Endemic to Tasmania, Green Rosellas are among Australia’s most colourful parrots, with rich emerald greens, vibrant yellows, deep blues and flashes of crimson creating a spectacular display of colour.

Bringing the Painting to Life

Painted in oils, Macca evolved slowly over many weeks as I carefully built layers of colour, light and intricate feather detail. My goal wasn’t simply to create a realistic portrait, but to capture a moment of connection—to reveal the spirit and individuality that make every bird unique.

For me, wildlife art is about far more than technical accuracy. Every painting is an opportunity to encourage people to pause, look closely and appreciate the extraordinary wildlife that surrounds us. Australia’s birds are among the most diverse and fascinating in the world, and they deserve both our admiration and our protection.

International Recognition for Australian Birdlife Art

Being named a finalist in the Wild Heart Gallery’s Masters of Wildlife Art 2026 exhibition is a milestone in my artistic journey. The exhibition celebrates outstanding wildlife art from across the globe, bringing together artists who share a passion for nature and conservation through their work.

To know that Macca will be exhibited alongside such exceptional artwork is a tremendous privilege and one I am deeply grateful for.

Thank You

To everyone who has supported my work—whether you’ve collected a painting, followed my journey, visited an exhibition, or simply shared your love of Australian birds—thank you. Your encouragement inspires me every day to continue creating art that celebrates our incredible native wildlife.

I also extend my sincere thanks to the judges and organisers of the Wild Heart Gallery – Masters of Wildlife Art 2026 for this wonderful recognition.

I look forward to sharing more Australian bird paintings with you in the months ahead. Until then, I hope Macca reminds us all to pause, appreciate the beauty of nature, and celebrate the remarkable birds that make Australia so unique.

Celebrating the Beauty of Nature: “Theo” at the Holmes Art Prize 2025

I’m thrilled to share that my oil painting of the Tasmanian Green Rosella, affectionately named “Theo,” has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Holmes Art Prize for Realistic Australian Bird Art 2025! This competition is a significant milestone in the bird art world, showcasing the incredible talent and passion for avian art across Australia.

Creating “Theo” was a labour of love. I wanted to capture not just the vibrant colours and intricate details of this stunning bird, but also the essence of its natural habitat. The lush greens and pops of red from the surrounding foliage reflect the beauty of the Tasmanian landscape, reminding us of the delicate balance of nature that we must cherish and protect.

As I stood beside my artwork at the exhibition, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. It’s not just about the recognition; it’s about connecting with fellow artists and nature lovers who share a passion for wildlife. Each brushstroke in “Theo” represents countless hours of observation and dedication, and I hope it inspires others to appreciate the beauty of our feathered friends.

Art has a unique way of bridging gaps and fostering conversations. I love hearing the stories and experiences that people share when they see my work. It’s a reminder that art is not just a solitary endeavor; it’s a shared journey that brings us all together.

Thank you for joining me on this adventure! I can’t wait to see where this journey with “Theo” takes us next. If you’re in the area, I encourage you to visit the exhibition and immerse yourself in the beauty of bird art. Let’s celebrate the wonders of nature together!

What a wonderful surprise to discover I am a featured artist in the June 2020 addition of ArtBaazar’s Online Magazine.

Even more of a surprise to discover my painting of “Swoop” has been featured on the front cover of the magazine.

Acknowledgement to photographer Muneer Al Shanti for graciously providing the reference photo as inspiration for my painting of “Swoop”.

ArtBaazar Online Magazine #8 June 2020

News From The Aviary

Oil Painting Techniques with Nicky Shelton

Gallery
 Enrolments are open for Albany Summer School January 13th to 17th 2020.
Come and join me in what should be a fun and rewarding experience where I will share my oil  painting techniques including how to apply tonal values, oil paint application and lots more.  I will show you skills than can easily be translated to any paintable subject.
Numbers are limited.
https://www.albanysummerschool.com.au/coursedetail.aspx?_Item=233

“Mitch” Major Mitchell painted in oils 40cm x 50cm.

 

Dressed in salmon pink these magnificent cockatoos possess a crown befitting a king.

 

” Mich” the Major Mitchell now resides on the walls of a Californian bird life art  collector who’s passion is cockatoos.  It  is lovely to share Australian birds in painted form.

 

To me birds are one of natures gifts belonging in their natural habitat where we can  cherish and protect them for generations to come.

 

Thank you wildlife photographer Keith Lightbody for graciously providing the reference photo for my interpretation.

 

A portion of every original painting I sell is automatically donated to Birdlife Australia.