AN artist who draws wildlife and pets has been awarded a top honour.

Lisa Ann Watkins from Ruardean has already had a whirlwind year, with her first major book deal, a sell-out US workshop tour and the launch of her own ‘Artist’s Signature’ kit.

And it has been topped off by winning the Inaugural Chairman’s Award from The Association of Animal Artists, which is designed to reward members that go the extra mile in pursuit of their artistic career, through their work with animals, supporting other artists, or through their determination and willingness to develop their own practice.

Lisa, who was presen-ted with the annual award at the AAA Winter Exhibition at The Station in Richmond, North Yorkshire, said: “I was humbled to receive an email to say that the panel of judges were really impressed with my work ethic, my drive to help others and also to educate about the animals that I paint and draw.

“I cannot put into words just how much this award means to me.

“Although it is always lovely to win a competition or prize through a popular vote, to be selected by a jury of your peers is such a special thing and this one has truly lifted me to have belief in what I do.

“This comes on the back of what has been a truly fantastic year with the book deal, another sellout US workshop trip and of course my own range of art supplies.”

Graphic design graduate Lisa only started drawing again seven years ago after a 20-year career in the costume and bridal industry.

But her online social media following has now reached more than 50,000, while she is so busy she has had to step away from private pet portrait commissions, as her ‘Draw with LAW’ workshops and online teaching channel have taken off so much.

“I work so hard, most of the time, to ensure that I am supporting those that I am committed to helping on their own creative journeys,” she added.

“I never expected my path to take this turn into teaching a few years ago, but nowadays it fuels my passion.

“But at the very core of my creative will always remain the ability to allow the voiceless animals to be heard through my work.

“Be it via exhibition pieces, donations to rescues and charities or simply raising awareness, I will strive harder than ever to stay true to that inner cause.

“Winning the Inaugural Chairman’s Award for 2019 is something that I am truly proud of and to be following in the footsteps of former winner Pollyanna Pickering is beyond words and truly humbling.

“I must thank all of the judges for this year at the Association of Animal Artists.”

In July, Lisa also finished her giant portrait of a lion, called ‘Dandy Lion’, for the Invitational collection of the Sketch For Survival – Explorers Against Extinction exhibition and auction at the Royal Geographical Society in London.

And the same month she signed her first major book deal, with the working title Drawing Animals in Colour.

She now has around 350 students she teaches monthly as well as being a guest tutor for some of the leading art schools and companies in the UK and Europe.

For more information, see her website animal artbylaw.co.uk and her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Animal ArtbyLAW