David Shepherd (artist)

David Shepherd (1931-2017) was a British wildlife artist, conservationist, and author. He was renowned for his realistic and dramatic paintings of African wildlife, particularly elephants, which he often portrayed in large-scale canvases.

Shepherd's artistic career began with aviation subjects, but a chance encounter with elephants in Kenya in the 1950s redirected his focus towards wildlife. He quickly gained recognition for his skill in capturing the power and beauty of animals in their natural habitat. His paintings were widely reproduced as prints, raising awareness and funds for conservation efforts.

Beyond his art, Shepherd was a dedicated conservationist. He founded the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation in 1984 to support on-the-ground conservation projects in Africa and Asia. The foundation works to protect endangered species and their habitats, combating poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

Shepherd's commitment to conservation was further recognized through numerous awards and honors, including an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire). He also wrote several books about his life and experiences in the African bush. He is considered one of the most influential wildlife artists of the 20th century.