A SAINTFIELD wildlife artist's dramatic painting of two eagles guarding their nest has been purchased by one of the USA's best known art collectors.

'On the Edge' by Lorna Hamilton was bought just before it featured in a major international exhibition entitled 'The Art of Conservation' at the Hiram Bauvelt Art Museum in Oradell, New Jersey.

It was also chosen for the cover of the hard backed companion book which accompanied the show. The sale was just one highlight of Lorna's visit to the exhibition which was the first juried event by the Canadian based 'Artists for Conservation Foundation. Another was a VIP dinner for more than 100 people held at the Museum just before the exhibition opened.

This was attended by Lorna's artistic role model Canadian wildlife artist Robert Bateman who was in attendance to receive

a lifetime achievement award. Lorna was delighted to have her photograph taken with Mr. Bateman and enjoyed talking to him.

It was a wonderful experience meeting Robert Bateman. He is a very well known and respected man in the wildlife art world. His work has had a big influence on me," she said.

She also admitted she was 'delighted' her painting had sold: "it means so much to know my work is appreciated. To sell to someone with such a prestigious collection is beyond my wildest dreams."

Mr. Bateman was obviously impressed by the Saintfield artist's work: "I found a softness and sharpness in Lorna's work that I admired very much," he said.

Lorna was the only representative from Ireland to attend the show where she was joined by artists from Japan, Australia, China, Great Britain and North America including English woman Pollyanna Pickering whose work features on calendars and greetings cards.

Two other paintings by Lorna have also been exhibited at prestigious shows in America this year and she hopes to show more work in both the USA and Canada.

"There is a long tradition of wildlife art in the States. The market is strong and it is definitely somewhere I would love to show my work on a permanent basis," she added.

"However there are still good opportunities in Ireland. I am excited to show my work and share my passion for wildlife, especially birds of prey."

"A percentage from the sale of each work in the exhibition was donated to scientific research and field projects through the Wildlife Conservation Society.

As a member of Artists for Conservation, Lorna has made a commitment to help protect wildlife and conserve the environment.

She hopes to be able to contribute donations through the sale of her latest limited edition print range.

Six images are being launched including 'On the Edge' and Freedom of the Skies (Red Kite in flight).

From each print a minimum of 5% will be donated to the RSPB and 'Eagles Flying', a scientifically managed sanctuary based in Sligo.

Lorna said: "There are many people who have admired my wildlife work however the originals are often too expensive for people to purchase. I wanted to produce prints of a reasonable price which would allow people to enjoy the beauty of the raptor in their home."

Brochures are available at request or images can be viewed through www.lornahamilton.com A documentary about Lorna's work with the 'Eagles Flying' Sanctuary will be screened on RTE during November.

Ulster Star
19/12/2008