Orphaned

ABOUT THE ARTWORK
“Orphaned” shows a young common seal that has lost his mother and was found at a beach in Germany. The drawing captures a peaceful moment, expressed through soft, almost monochromatic colours. Shortly afterwards, the seal pup was caught by a rescue centre, plumped up, and later released back into the wild.

Medium: Coloured pencil on paper
Category: Animal Behaviour

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Christina Hanke is a self taught artist living in Germany, specialising in drawing animals. She works primarily with coloured pencils and graphite. Christina started drawing more than 20 years ago, beginning with horse drawings and found a love for drawing animals of every kind.

After doing only pet commissions for some years, wildlife art became her big passion.

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.