David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation | Wildlife Artist of the Year 2026

DSWF Wildlife Artist of the Year (WAY) is an internationally renowned wildlife art competition and exhibition. Each year, it attracts entries from some of the most talented artists around the globe, who come together to celebrate the beauty of the natural world. Since its inception in 2008, WAY has raised over £2 million to benefit conservation work across Africa and Asia.  

The exhibition showcases a breath-taking selection of shortlisted artworks commended by an expert judging panel and portraying a variety of techniques and mediums; from recycled plastic sculptures and intricate pencil drawings to vast colourful oil paintings, and everything in between.

With entry income and 50% of the proceeds from all artwork sales supporting DSWF and field partners, WAY highlights how art can create something powerful and ignite conversation about conservation. 

Images above, top row, right to left: 

Lear's Macaw by Ruby Addison, Cat Crawl by Lisa Gleim, Calling by  Kate Alger

Images above, bottom row, right to left: 

Chop Chop by Chris Swain, Last Known Location by Leah Gardner,  Jellyfish Fields by Emma Wicks

The competition and exhibition have become one of the most noteworthy events in the art calendar, often being referred to as the ‘Oscars of international wildlife art.’ Playing an integral role in helping to maintain the ‘Art of Survival’ legacy of founder, David Shepherd CBE, WAY utilises the power of art to celebrate wildlife, support awareness, and raise funds for endangered species across Africa and Asia. 

The weeklong exhibition of finalists will return to the Mall Galleries, London, from 8 - 12 September 2026, proving a worthy culmination and celebration of wildlife art and its role in conservation.