ExCo
Created by Rochdale-based artist Holly Moeller, whose art studio is titled Kettle and Quill, the intricate watercolour and ink artwork captures the beauty of the Fylde coast and the characterful charm of the rare sand lizard. The piece was specially created to raise awareness of the Fylde Sand Dunes Project and the vital conservation work restoring this precious habitat.
Over 400 sand lizards, one of the UK’s rarest reptiles, are now thriving once again on the dunes thanks to ongoing habitat restoration. Once pushed to the brink by habitat loss, these remarkable reptiles were returned to the coastline several years ago and appear to be a steady population, offering a rare piece of positive climate and conservation news.
Holly worked with the Fylde Sand Dunes project as their artist in residence during their “world famous” annual Christmas tree planting event last week, which involves sticking old Christmas trees in the sand to rebuild sand dunes as both a habitat and coastal defence.
Inspired by classic children’s book illustrations, Holly used ink to give the piece vibrancy and personality, capturing the sand lizard’s “unmistakable, slightly cheeky expression”.
“I wanted to combine creativity with conservation awareness,” said Holly. “The return of over 400 sand lizards to the dunes is such hopeful news, which we tied in with the Christmas tree planting.
“I wanted to celebrate that success and help more people fall in love with this special landscape. I know so many people were interested in the piece during the event, so I’m also offering 15% off a limited edition Giclée art print of the painting.”
Holly spent nearly three weeks bringing the artwork to life. The process included four full days of field sketches and research, studying wildlife and producing anatomically accurate drawings, followed by careful painting in watercolour and ink on premium watercolour paper. A further week was dedicated to framing and photography.
Lydia German, Senior Campaigns Officer at Lancashire Wildlife Trust, said: “Having Holly as our artist in residence at our event created huge interest in the painting and the wildlife featured in it.
“People loved seeing creativity used to tell the story of local wildlife. It’s a brilliant way to engage new audiences and raise awareness of species like the sand lizard, whose recovery shows what’s possible when we restore nature.”
The Fylde Sand Dunes Project is restoring one of the most important dune systems in the country, protecting rare species, improving resilience to climate change, and reconnecting people with wildlife along the Lancashire coast.
This competition offers not only the chance to win a stunning original painting, but also to celebrate a conservation success story unfolding right on our doorstep. To enter, follow the Fylde Sand Dunes project on either Facebook or Instagram and view instructions on how to enter. Entries close on 22nd March.
