subject: Wildlife Artist Of The Century. [print this page] The dedication of David Shepherd to the conservation of animals, in particular the many endangered species on our planet is a shining example to us all.
He has come to acutely recognize the need for mankind to take care of our fragile world, and that unless changes are made in the imminent future, we are all going to be the losers in this amazingly beautiful world.
We see more recently the meeting of over 150 countries in Copenhagen to discuss 'climate change' , and the use of natural resources. World governments are now in discussion on this subject which is seen as an urgent matter.
The planet has suffered for many years due to the greed and selfishness of mankind.
The destruction of the Rainforest in South America. The overkill of sealife.. Vast commercial farming using pesticides and fertilisers known to destroy and harm both wildlife and mankind. The raising of the world's temperatures and consequently the melting of the Arctic ice ... These are just a few of the problems that need urgent resolve... A small shift in the ambitions and goals of mankind could easily change our present course of disaster.
Many people have realised the need for a change in the way mankind is using the world, and David Shepherd is one of those people, who in looking at the delicate balance of nature though his paintings. He has become fortunate enough to achieve worldwide fame as an artist, and has used his 'celebrity' influence in many ways to help the wild animals many of which are facing extinction, to survive.
Through his many talks, tv appearances and his conservation foundation, he has raised many thousands of pounds to further help people the world over in their work as conservationists.
In the early 1960's he first painted an African bull elephant titled 'Wise old Elephant' which was published as a poster print and distributed by Boots. People had not considered the relevance of this print until it suddenly became the world's most sold image....
From the early 1960's signed, limited edition prints were published on a rgular basis, the demand however was usually twice as great as the published edition... There are a few paintings that have become renowned as the artist's best work.. 'Tiger in the sun', 'Ambseli', The old forge'...
Even a small dormouse print (signed, limited edition of 1500) that was published in 1990 for 50+vat, now achieves prices of 750-850. As an investment David Shepherd's work, both originals and the early signed, limited edition prints have increased enormously in price.
Most collectors of David's work primarily enjoy the pleasure of seeing it on the wall, and do not look at it as an investment... The investment potential of David Shepherd's signed, limited edition prints and original paintings are undoubtedly second to no other wildlife artist.
His work is often copied but as with all great artists the copier only at his best manages to achieve a poor second..
David Shepherd continues to work hard for the values in which he believes,Conservation and the survival of many of our planet's species. As specialist art dealers for over twenty five years in David's work we have followed his career with great interest, and wish him all the best on this enormously challenging quest as we come towards another new year 2010
