For as long as I can remember, my Grandad has been my biggest supporter — and also my greatest inspiration. He’s the reason I first picked up a paintbrush, and the reason I fell in love with wildlife art.

For him, that inspiration started with David Shepherd — the legendary wildlife artist and conservationist. Grandad has admired David’s work for decades, not just for his talent, but for his deep passion for protecting the natural world. In many ways, David Shepherd shaped the way my Grandad sees both art and life — and in turn, my grandad shaped the way I see it too.

We both share a deep love for animals, but for my Grandad, elephants have always been his favourite. To him, they are wise, emotional, and noble — and in desperate need of our protection. After suffering three heart attacks last year, my Grandad told me he didn’t want to leave this earth without giving something back to the elephants that have meant so much to him.

DSWF work spans Africa and Asia, directly funding rangers, rescuing animals, and influencing global policy — all while keeping art and storytelling at the core of their mission.