Lonely

ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Critically endangered due to hunting and deforestation, the lesser florican is small and vulnerable. In “Lonely”, a male in mating plumage has performed his exhausting courtship dance to no effect: there is no female in the space before him. These beautiful birds are now rare in their natural habitat of the Indian subcontinent.

Medium: Watercolour on paper
Category: Youth Exclusive (15 – 19 years)

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Matthew VanDoodewaard is a self-taught artist who has lived in several US states and is inspired by places that he has visited, from Mexican deserts to the Mourne Mountains of Northern Ireland. Since childhood, he has loved drawing and painting animals from all over the world.

ABOUT WILDLIFE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
This artwork was selected for exhibition in Wildlife Artist of the Year, David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s internationally acclaimed competition celebrating the very best in wildlife art while raising vital funds for conservation.

YOUR PURCHASE MAKES A DIFFERENCE
50% of the proceeds from this sale will support David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) and our conservation partners across Africa and Asia. Together, we fight wildlife crime and protect endangered species, from frontline action to global policy.

SHIPPING INFORMATION
Please note that shipping costs are not included in the purchase price for this artwork, and there may be additional customs charges for deliveries outside the UK.  Upon purchase, a member of the DSWF team will be in touch to discuss collection or delivery options.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
Nominate your favourite Wildlife Artist of the Year artwork for the 2026 People’s Choice Award. Every vote helps celebrate the talent, creativity and passion of the artists who make this competition so special. Click on the Vote button above. One vote per person only.