David Shepherd was born in Hendon, London on 25th April 1931. He attended Stowe School in Buckinghamshire. Shortly after leaving school, David travelled to Kenya with an ambition of becoming a game warden, but his dream was not to be and was refused the post due to lack of experience. Upon returning the UK David applied for a place at the Slade School of Art London but he was refused entry due to having no artistic ability. By chance, David met artist Robin Goodwin who agreed to teach David over a three-year period and the rest is history! David Shepherd sadly passed away in 2017, he was arguably one of the world’s most recognised wildlife artists, his works and his achievement in animal wildlife conservation made him a leading figure amongst his peers. The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation was established in 1984 and has been vital in the protection and survival of endangered animals around the world. David received numerous awards, including an OBE and CBE for his contribution to charity and conservation work. David has produced a number of works which include RAF planes and personnel, steam locomotives and African wildlife, his artwork remains highly sort after today and can be found in private and corporate collections around the world.
