This commission challenged me to use several references to paint one image and relied on my imagination for some parts.

The spectacled flying fox, also known as the spectacled fruit bat, is found in Australia’s north-eastern regions of Queensland, roosting high on the branches of trees. They earn their name from having distinctive straw-coloured fur surrounding their eyes, looking like they are wearing spectacles.

 
They feed on rainforest fruits, favouring the nectar and pollen of eucalyptus blossoms. Because of this, they play an essential role in keeping the rainforest ecosystem balanced and thriving through seed dispersal and pollination. Since forestry operations and land degradation from agriculture have decimated their vital habitat, this little Aussie battler, like so many other beautiful species, is sadly declining.

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 Feel free to reach out and ask me about commissioning one of your favourite animals.