Jacqueline A Gaylard

Artistic background

Born in England in 1972. For most of my childhood I lived in a village near Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire and this is where my passion for drawing and painting began.
Following my training as a Graphic Designer, I decided to try to convert my passion for painting into a full-time career. Having successfully exhibited my paintings it was not long before I fulfilled my ambition to become a professional Artist.
I live with my family in Devon and delight in the abundance of wildlife and spectacular scenery that surrounds my studio.
Painting a wide variety of subjects, animals are undoubtedly one of my favourites, whether wild or domestic. I have always enjoyed painting cats and having been a member of the Society of Feline Artists (S.O.F.A) for 26 years I have the opportunity to explore the joys of portraying the complex feline form.
I regularly exhibit in Central London and in prestigious galleries throughout Britain. I am a fellow member of The Wildlife Art Society International (FWASI) and have also successfully shown with the Society of Wildlife Artists (SWLA) and the Royal Society of Portrait Painters at the esteemed Mall Galleries, London.
When painting wildlife, from Britain or exotic species, I take great care in the research, studying behaviour and distinctive character. I strive to portray the animal in a natural habitat - capturing a typical moment and location.
I'm extremely interested in the conservation of wildlife and hope that my wildlife paintings will help raise awareness of endangered species.
I always try to sketch from life whenever possible, to gather as much information about colour, form and composition. Photography also plays its part in the creative process, for animals never stay still for long! Acrylic paint has become my main medium, but occasionally I will produce artwork in Gouache or Oil paint.