The Florida Artist won the 2022 California Duck Stamp Art Contest
A painting by John Brennan of Lutz, Florida was selected as the winner of the 2022 California Duck Stamp Art Contest. The painting, which depicts three Canadian geese, will be the official design for the 2022-2023 stamp.
The judges praised the anatomical accuracy of the geese and realistic quality of the painting, noting that it almost looked like a photograph. They admired the attention to detail, especially the feathers and reflection in the water, and noticed the contrast of the birds and the simplicity of the background. They also value composition – the decision to use three geese is unique and creates an artistically pleasing image.
Brennan decided to join the contest when he learned that the Canada goose would be this year’s species. “I think they’re a very elegant and versatile subject to paint,” he says, “considering their high-contrast head and cheeks and the warm tone of their body.” He was lucky enough to photograph these geese for reference in Yellowstone National Park. The glassy water made for some very interesting reflections and light play. He decided to keep the composition clean and simple, so as not to interfere with the beauty of the animals.
Artists from around the country submitted entries for the contest, which is sponsored by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Buck Spencer of Junction City, Oregon, was second, Jeffrey Klinefelter of Etna Green, Indiana, third and Michael Patrick Bailey of Los Angeles, California, received the honor.
The top four paintings will be on display at the Pacific Flyway Decoy Association’s Annual Classic Wildlife Art Festival in Sacramento, July 16-17.
Since 1971, the California Duck Stamp Program’s annual contest has attracted top wildlife artists from around the country. The contest is open to artists from all 50 states to ensure a wide pool of submissions. All proceeds from stamp sales go directly to waterfowl conservation projects within California.
In the past, hunters were required to purchase and affix a stamp to their hunting licenses. Right now, hunters no longer have to carry stamps because California’s modern licensing system prints proof of additional fees paid directly to the license. However, CDFW still makes stamps, which can be requested on the CDFW website at wildlife.ca.gov/licensing/collector-stamps.
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Media Contacts:
Amanda McDermott, CDFW Communications, (916) 738-9641
Melanie Weaver, CDFW Wildlife Branch
