The Wildlife Artist of the Year 2025 competition, organised by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF), is a globally renowned event that celebrates artistic excellence and environmental advocacy. This annual competition seeks to inspire creativity while raising awareness about wildlife conservation. Artists from around the world, whether amateur or professional, are invited to showcase their talent through wildlife-themed artworks. The competition encompasses a diverse range of categories, offering participants the opportunity to explore themes such as Abstract World, Animal Behaviour, Earth’s Wild Beauty, Environmental Artivism, Facing Extinction, Into the Blue, and Wings. Additionally, the Youth Exclusive category is tailored for aspiring artists aged 15–19, providing a unique platform to highlight young talent.
With its emphasis on traditional art forms, the Wildlife Artist of the Year competition welcomes a wide array of mediums, including oil, acrylic, watercolour, pencil, mixed media, bronze, plaster, wire, collage, and textiles. However, it excludes photography and digital art, ensuring a focus on handcrafted and painterly expressions. The event is not just a contest but a powerful vehicle for change, as it aligns with DSWF’s mission to protect endangered species and preserve their habitats. Each submitted artwork serves as a visual narrative, advocating for wildlife protection and fostering a deeper connection between audiences and the natural world.
The competition also offers participants significant exposure and the opportunity to exhibit their works at the prestigious Mall Galleries in London. Finalist pieces will be showcased in both a physical exhibition from 9–13 September 2025 and an online gallery, allowing a global audience to admire and purchase the artworks. This dual exhibition format not only amplifies the reach of the artists but also supports conservation efforts, as a portion of the proceeds from artwork sales is directed toward DSWF’s wildlife preservation initiatives. By blending artistic expression with a commitment to environmental stewardship, the Wildlife Artist of the Year 2025 competition stands as a testament to the transformative power of art in driving meaningful change for the planet.
The entry fee is £25 per artwork for the first two entries, and £15 per entry thereafter. Entries to the Youth Exclusive category are £15 per entry.
Eligibility
Open to all artists, both amateur and professional, aged 15 years and over.
Prize
The overall winner will receive a £5,000 personal cash prize and a £5,000 voucher to donate, in their name, to a DSWF-supported conservation initiative or species of their choice. The second prize includes a £1,000 personal cash award and a £1,000 donation voucher. Each category winner will receive a £500 cash prize, and the Youth Exclusive category winner will also be awarded £500.
