Nicky Shelton

Western Australia, Australia, Waratah, oil, 30 x 20" (76 x 51 cm)

Second Prize is a two-page editorial feature in American Art Collector magazine My Inspiration

To me birds are one of nature’s gifts. I have always been fascinated by them. It’s not just their sheer beauty, but their personalities and freedom that I love. Rainbow lorikeets are stunningly colorful birds, extremely social, raucous and the providers of entertainment. When I saw David C. Simon’s beautiful photograph of this pair sharing the nectar of a waratah flower, I just had to paint it.

I named the piece after the state floral emblem of New South Wales (Australia), the waratah flower. This image captures the sociability and playfulness of these beautiful birds.

My Design Strategy

Through my paintings I endeavor to capture the unique characteristics and magnificence of my chosen subjects. My goal for each artwork is to have them jump from the canvas into the viewers’ own reality. For reference material I have developed a small network of highly talented birdlife photographers who graciously support my passion for birdlife with reference photos. From provided reference material I create a layout concept sometimes using multiple images. I use light and shaded edges to draw the viewer to the focal point and create backgrounds to suit my subjects—in some instances in a more contemporary style. I call this “contemporary realism.”

My Working Process

Once I am happy with a design concept I hand draw the subjects onto stretched canvas, using large grid lines as directives for positioning. Oils are my preferred medium as I believe it is better suited to create a sense of depth and is more easily manipulated for detail. I always start with a blocking in process commencing with the background and progressing to the subject. This process helps me to ascertain the tonal values. I then leave the artwork to dry and start overlaying using fine brushes to capture the detail, color depth and definition of the feather plumage.

Contact Details

Email: nicky@nickyshelton.com.au

Website: nickyshelton.com.au