Art we lucky

Art we lucky

Wildlife takes centre stage at Sunderland art exhibition as local artist pledges support for Durham Wildlife Trust

Sunderland artist Victoria Tanner unveiled her new exhibition, Wild, at 24NE Gallery in early August. It features a vibrant celebration of North East conservation encapsulated into a striking feature wall of colour, texture and local wildlife.

The preview evening drew a warm crowd of supporters, artists and wildlife enthusiasts, all eager to see the collection of more than 30 original artworks, inspired by species and landscapes found across the region. Many pieces have been inspired by Victoria’s time visiting Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve and other local parks in the Sunderland area.

Victoria has pledged to donate 25% of all proceeds from the exhibition to Durham Wildlife Trust. Visitors will also find Trust posters and donation pots throughout the gallery to help raise further funds and awareness.

Victoria said: "This exhibition truly has been a labour of love. I’ve handled every single element of bringing it to life, from research, sketching and painting to sewing storage bags, designing posters, framing, cataloguing, baking cakes and even making fudge for the preview night. I’m so grateful to have been supported by fellow artists at Twenty-Four North East."

Giselle Greulich-Smith, Supporter Development Officer for Durham Wildlife Trust, said: “I had the privilege of attending the preview evening for Victoria’s exhibition. The artwork, inspired by wildlife and nature, is absolutely wonderful and it is humbling that Victoria has chosen to support the Trust with proceeds from her sales, we are very grateful to her for doing so. Everyone at the gallery was so welcoming and I’d encourage everyone to try and get along to enjoy the artwork which has been displayed beautifully in this exhibition.”

Wild runs at 24NE Gallery, Fawcett Street, Sunderland (SR1 1RH) until 7 September, alongside the gallery’s On The Wall exhibition.