A talented wildlife artist from Newquay has been selected as a finalist in an internationally renowned wildlife art competition and exhibition.

Naomi Jenkin’s drawing titled ‘The Elephant Charge’ has made it through to the finals of the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Wildlife Artist of the Year 2024 competition.

The pastel drawing will go on display at the Mall Galleries in London for the awards ceremony and Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition between July 1 and 6.

Naomi’s passion for the natural world has led her to a career celebrating animals of all kinds through her art. Her work aims to encourage people to foster a deeper connection to nature and protect the natural world for future generations.

She primarily works in pastels with a highly detailed and realistic style. Her wildlife art often captures not just the animal but also their environment, creating immersive and captivating scenes that draw the viewer in.

Naomi, who was also a finalist in the competition in 2022, recently received the Inaugural Chairperson’s Award 2024 from the Association of Animal Artists in recognition of her wildlife art and contribution to conservation.

Naomi said: "I'm absolutely over the moon that my wildlife art has achieved this level of recognition.

“The standard of art entered into this event is so high. It attracts some of the best wildlife artists from around the world, so I'm incredibly humbled and honoured to be amongst the finalists.

“It's so rewarding to know that my art will be helping the animals that inspire it too.

“The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation does a huge amount to protect endangered species around the world, so I'm incredibly proud to support the work they do through my art. I can't wait to see my drawing on display in the Mall Galleries in London. That will be a real career highlight.”

The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation is a results-driven wildlife conservation charity operating across Africa and Asia to end wildlife crime and protect endangered species in their natural habitat.

A spokesperson said: “Each year, the exhibition showcases a breath-taking selection of shortlisted artworks which portray a variety of techniques and mediums, all commended by our expert judging panel.

“From recycled plastic sculptures to intricate pencil drawings, vast colourful oil paintings and everything in between, you’ll find the world’s best wildlife art on display.

“With entry income and 50 per cent of the proceeds from all artwork sales supporting the foundation and our frontline conservation partners in Africa and Asia, this exhibition highlights how we can use art to create something powerful and ignite the conversation about conservation.”

For more information about the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation visit davidshepherd.org