Netley Artist Auction Raises Over £8,500 for Wildlife Conservation

An artist has managed to raise over £8,500 for the cause of wildlife conservation.

Cy Baker, hailing from Netley, has managed to raise £8,511 through his national art project up until now.

The funds will be directed toward nature restoration initiatives at Wildlife Trusts throughout the UK, such as those operated by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Cy developed a series of pen-and-ink illustrations after visiting 53 Wildlife Trust sites throughout the UK.

These encompass five locations in Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight: Copythorne Common, Alverstone Mead, St Catherine’s Hill, Deacon Hill, and Swanwick Lakes.

Cy stated: "Even with significant natural habitat loss in the UK, a lot still endures, especially within the Wildlife Trust reserves."

I'm absolutely thrilled to share this through my art and to contribute in even a minor way.

Every component created for this project depicts solely the habitats and species I encountered during my visits; hence, the artwork truly mirrors what visitors could potentially experience when they explore these remarkable locations.

The collection comprises original artworks and drawings highlighting various creatures like the red squirrel, which frequently visits Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve.

The items went under the hammer on April 24, attracting offers from enthusiasts of natural beauty as well as art connoisseurs.

During Cy’s visits to the reserves, all 53 of the sketches produced were sold, leaving only two original pieces still up for sale.

The initiative is set to accumulate a sum of £13,000 for The Wildlife Trusts.

Cy added: "I'm utterly thrilled with the reaction to the auction."

It’s immensely satisfying to realize that these works — capturing precisely what I witnessed at every location — will now support the preservation of those very sites.

In spite of the difficulties confronting our wildlife, there remains an abundance of beauty, and my aim was to highlight that aspect.

Elenya Lendon, who works as the marketing and communications manager at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, commented: “Cy’s creative skills along with his strong bond with the county’s natural scenery has offered an exceptional method to boost both awareness and funding for our conservation efforts.”

We're delighted with the reception and thankful for the money we've raised.