Claire Payne's blog

Wednesday, 9 September, 2026
I’m honored to share some exciting news from my artistic and conservation journey: I have been promoted from Associate Member to Signature Member of Artists for Conservation (AFC).This recognition means a great deal to me because Artists for Conservation is an international community of artists dedicated to supporting environmental conservation through art. Being part of this organization will bring opportunities to connect with other artists who share a deep appreciation for the natural world and a desire to help protect it.According to AFC President and Founder Jeffrey Whiting, my...
Monday, 24 August, 2026
I’m honored to be featured as Artist for Conservation's Artist of the Month!My hope is that my paintings celebrate wildlife, inspire appreciation and, ultimately, support for its protection.Thank you AFC for this wonderful feature and for helping share the message behind my art!https://www.artistsforconservation.org/.../claire-payne...#WildlifeArt #WildlifeArtist #ConservationThroughArt #ArtistsForConservation #WildlifeConservation #ClairePayneArt
Friday, 1 May, 2026
I’m honored to share that my painting “Long-tailed Duck on Migration” has been accepted into the 2026 “Wings • Waters • Ways” juried exhibition at the Birds of Vermont Museum!This special exhibition brings together wonderful artwork exploring the interwoven history of humans, birds, and waterways. I’m delighted to have my painting included among such thoughtful and inspiring work.The show runs May 1 through October 31, 2026, and I hope you’ll have a chance to visit if you’re in the area.Exhibition location: Birds of Vermont Museum...
Sunday, 13 July, 2025
North Atlantic Puffins are found in North America and this painting was inspired by a trip to the rugged coastal village of Elliston, Newfoundland -often called the “Root Cellar Capital of the World,” and also home to one of North America’s most accessible puffin colonies. Nestled on the Bonavista Peninsula, the area is a haven for wildlife and a place of breathtaking natural beauty.I spent hours nestled in the windswept grasses atop the cliffs, camera in hand, waiting for the perfect moment to capture the charm of the Atlantic Puffin in its natural setting. This painting is...
Sunday, 13 July, 2025
Though I’ve never been drawn to the idea of viewing wildlife in captivity, this painting stands as a testament to how sanctuaries can play a vital role in both conservation and education. During a visit to Flamingo Gardens in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, I had the rare opportunity to observe a Roseate Spoonbill up close as it quietly groomed its brilliant plumage. As a portrait enthusiast, I was captivated by its elegance and character—an experience that became the foundation for this painting.It was during that visit that I began to understand the important role sanctuaries play in...
Friday, 11 July, 2025
On a trip along the St. Lawrence River, we visited Bic National Park.  it is nestled along the south shore of the St. Lawrence River in Quebec, just southwest of Rimouski near the village of Le Bic, Bic National Park is a gem of the St. Lawrence Basin - and a must-visit for nature lovers and conservation-minded travelers.This coastal park is a mixture of rugged forested hills, sweeping meadows, and rich marine ecosystems. Steep rocky outcrops give way to peaceful coves and tidal zones, offering habitat to a diverse array of wildlife. Most notably, Bic is home to healthy populations of...
Monday, 7 July, 2025
This 10” x 20” oil painting on primed canvas was inspired by a quiet encounter with a Great Blue Heron, perfectly camouflaged among the golden husks of last year’s cattails. The scene unfolded at Refuge Faunique Marguerite-D'Youville, a rich wetland habitat where the Chateauguay and St. Lawrence Rivers meet, just south of Montréal. The heron, one of the many spring migrants returning to the refuge, paused long enough for this striking composition to take shape.The finished piece captures the beauty of stillness and seasonal transition—and is now available for...
Tuesday, 3 June, 2025
I'm honored to share that my painting, “The White Pelicans of Ding Darling,” has been juried into the Artists for Conservation (AFC) 2025 Virtual Exhibit and will also be featured in the official companion book.This year’s AFC Virtual Exhibit received an impressive 506 submissions, making it one of the most competitive yet. I’m proud to be included among such a talented group of artists who are dedicated to celebrating and protecting the natural world.Artists for Conservation (www.artistsforconservation.org) is the world’s leading artist group supporting...