As an artist who grew up in Zimbabwe, being selected as a finalist in the 2026 David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year exhibition is incredibly moving. DSWF’s invaluable conservation and education efforts, especially in Hwange National Park, the very wilderness of my youth, make it an absolute privilege to connect my creative journey with a foundation that protects the heart of my childhood home.
Rock Wave
Original
Kanab, Utah
30x30" acrylic and pen on premium canvas 1 1/2" deep with painted sides
$2,500
ABOUT THE PIECE
In Rock Wave, the solid, ancient presence of a rock face is reimagined through dynamic, flowing abstraction, capturing the incredible wave-like patterns carved by the elements over millions of years. Embracing the ethos of the "Abstract World" category of the competition, it strips away the literal to reveal the rhythmic pulse of the earth itself, offering a pure, raw display of perception.
The painting is an invitation to pause, slow down, and marvel at the intricacies of nature's craftsmanship. It captures a moment of deep geological time, showing how the Earth tells its own story through these layered patterns, much like lines in a book.
Crucially, Rock Wave speaks directly to the vital importance of preserving our natural landscapes. While conservation often rightfully focuses on vulnerable wildlife, this piece serves as a reminder that we must equally revere and protect the foundational habitats that sustain them. If we can train our eyes to find breathtaking beauty in something as seemingly simple as a weathered rock face, we awaken to the beauty of the natural world everywhere. This shift in perspective is the very heartbeat of conservation: when we recognize the beauty in our landscapes, they become meaningful to us, and what we find deeply meaningful, we are fiercely driven to save.
M a k e i t Y o u r s...
OPTION 1:
LIVE LOCALLY? PURCHASE WITH FREE DELIVERY
Free local delivery for original artwork within Salt Lake City area.
From Brigham down to Spanish Fork.
From Grantsville across to Heber.
Please email nadia@nudsdesigns.com if you'd like to check your address is covered!
Delivery usually within a week.
OPTION 2:
PURCHASE & THEN COLLECT FROM STUDIO
Wherever you live, you're welcome to collect your original artwork from the studio.
The Avenues, Salt Lake City, 84103, UT, USA.
You will receive an email after purchase to set up a collection date.
OPTION 3:
PURCHASE & HAVE SHIPPED WORLDWIDE
Worldwide purchasing and shipping available for original artwork.
Please email nadia@nudsdesigns.com for purchase and shipping quote.
Collector responsible for any taxes and customs fees.
QUERIES?
Feel free to email with any queries....
ABOUT DAVID SHEPHERD WILDLIFE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
Wildlife Artist of the Year returned to London’s Mall Galleries in September 2026, bringing together artists from around the world to celebrate the natural world and support its protection. Often called “The Oscars of Wildlife Art,” the exhibition was founded by wildlife artist and conservationist David Shepherd CBE and raised funds for the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s conservation work across Africa and Asia.
My painting was selected from thousands of entries as a finalist in the Abstract World category. I travelled from Salt Lake City to London for the exhibition, and it was an unforgettable experience. The Foundation’s leadership team was exceptionally warm and welcoming, and the galleries were beautifully presented. I felt incredibly proud to be part of such a special and important event.
The exhibition showcased an inspiring range of wildlife art from around the world. Seeing so many artists use their creativity to celebrate nature and support conservation made the experience all the more meaningful.
