Wild Lives
Wild Lives is a celebration of the animals we share our planet with the curious ones, the grumpy ones and, of course, the posers. Every painting begins with a real encounter, a moment that made me stop, watch and pay attention. I take my own reference photographs during visits to conservation-focused zoos and wildlife parks across the UK and Europe, spending time observing the animals and waiting for those fleeting moments of character to appear.
The exhibition brings together expressive oils, acrylics and mixed media, ranging from bold, colourful pieces full of energy to quieter works that invite closer contemplation. Many of the animals featured are endangered or vulnerable, adding another layer to the stories behind the paintings.
Meet The Artist
Every well I’ll be visiting Gallery Oldham, so if you fancy popping in for a chat, you’ll find me in Gallery One for a few hours every Tuesday. If there’s a particular day and time you’d like to visit, just send me an email and (annebardsleyart@gmail.com) and I’ll try my best to be there to meet you and discuss all things arty!
Featured Press
Oldham Community Radio, Radio interview with Gerald Brierley and Paula Le Moignan, 18th August 2026
Saddleworth Independent “Oldham artist brings wildlife to life in new Gallery Oldham exhibition”, by Gemma Carter , 11th August 2026
Oldham Chronicle, “Oldham wildlife artist Anne Bardsley to open Gallery Oldham exhibition”, by David Murphy, 7th August 2026
Behind The Paintings
The images below offer a glimpse behind some of the paintings, showing the original reference photograph alongside the finished artwork. Each one tells a little story about the moment that caught my attention, the inspiration behind the painting and how my imagination transformed it into the finished piece.
Blackpool Zoo
Chester Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo
Hoo Zoo
Jungle Park Tenerife
Lancaster Park And Animal Farm
London Zoo
Welsh Mountain Zoo
Explore the Organisations Behind the Exhibition
Many of the animals featured in Wild Lives were photographed during visits to conservation-focused zoos and wildlife parks across the UK and Europe. I’ve also connected with organisations whose work supports animal welfare, conservation and the protection of endangered species.
If you’d like to find out more about the organisations connected to Wild Lives and the important work they do, you can explore their websites below.
Zoos & Wildlife Parks
Blackpool Zoo
Chester Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo
Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World
Jungle Park, Tenerife
London Zoo
Lancaster Farm
Marwell Zoo
Welsh Mountain Zoo