Organizer Information
The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) has officially opened the call for the Wildlife Artist of the Year 2026. This internationally renowned Competition serves as a vital platform for "Artivism," blending high-caliber Art with frontline environmental conservation. The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) is a highly influential wildlife conservation charity based in the United Kingdom. Founded in 1984 by the celebrated wildlife artist and conservationist David Shepherd CBE, the foundation is dedicated to the survival of endangered species in their natural habitats. DSWF operates with a unique "Art of Survival" philosophy, utilizing the power of art to fund and raise awareness for critical conservation projects across Africa and Asia. By bridging the gap between the creative community and environmental activism, the foundation has successfully funded frontline protection for elephants, rhinos, tigers, and many other species for over four decades.
Title & Description
Wildlife Artist of the Year 2026
This is an internationally renowned competition and exhibition often described as the "Oscars of wildlife art." The purpose of the open call is to showcase the world’s most talented wildlife artists while simultaneously raising vital funds for conservation. Artists are invited to submit works that capture the beauty, fragility, and spirit of the natural world. The competition encourages "Artivism"—using creative expression to ignite change and highlight the urgent need to protect endangered species and their ecosystems. Selected works will be featured in a high-profile physical exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London and an online gallery, providing massive international exposure.
Categories
The competition is open to a wide range of traditional and contemporary media. The specific categories for entry include:
- Animal Behaviour: Showing a real understanding of the subject through its natural actions.
- Earth’s Wild Beauty: Landscapes or plants that capture the essence of a wild environment.
- Facing Extinction: Focusing on any IUCN Red List endangered species.
- Into the Blue: Exploring the world of water, from oceans to rivers.
- Wings: Highlighting the beauty and complexity of birds and insects.
- Abstract World: Non-representational or stylized interpretations of nature.
- Environmental Artivism: Works that explicitly address environmental issues and the human impact on nature.
Eligibility
- International: The call is open to amateur and professional artists from all over the world.
- Age Limit: Open to all artists aged 15 and over by the closing date. (There is also a separate "Global Youth Wildlife Art" competition for younger participants).
- Mediums: All traditional media are accepted (including oils, acrylics, watercolor, pencil, sculpture, and original prints). However, photography and purely digital art are not eligible for the main competition.
Program Benefits & Awards
- Overall Winner: Receives a £5,000 cash prize plus a £5,000 donation to a DSWF-supported conservation project in the artist's name.
- Runner-Up: Receives a £2,000 cash prize.
- Category Winners: Individual prizes for the top work in each of the seven categories.
- Exhibition Opportunity: Shortlisted artists will have their work exhibited at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London.
- Sales: 50% of the sale price of each artwork sold during the exhibition goes to the artist (the other 50% supports DSWF’s conservation work).
Application Fee
- Standard Entry: £30 per entry for the first two artworks.
- Third and Subsequent Entries: £15 per entry.
- Concessions: There are often reduced rates for members or students; please check the specific portal for updated fee structures.
Application Requirements
- Personal Info: Contact details and a short artist bio.
- Artwork Details: Title, medium, dimensions, and a short description (up to 150 words) of the inspiration behind the piece.
- High-Quality Images: Digital files (JPG or PNG) of the artwork (ensure correct lighting and framing).
- Price: An estimated sale price for the work (as all shortlisted pieces must be for sale).
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 7 January 2026
Location
London, United Kingdom.
Additional Details
A key requirement of the competition is that all entries must be for sale, with 50% of the proceeds going to the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation to support its conservation efforts. Artists should consider the shipping and framing costs to London if their work is shortlisted, as these are typically the responsibility of the artist. The foundation also places a strong emphasis on ethical subject matter—entries depicting animals in captivity or distress without a conservation context are generally discouraged.