From elephants and crocodiles wandering through her yard, to hearing hippos eat the front lawn at night, Carla Grace’s childhood connection with wildlife has now become her passion. She is a talented South African born, Australian based wildlife artist who uses realism, acrylic, and oil paints to paint her subjects and evoke a strong connection with the viewer.  

Renowned for her level of detail and artistry, she has been a finalist in many awards including the Kennedy Art Prize, Bluethumb Portrait Competition, David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year, and winner of the RSASA YouthScape 2D Award in 2018.  

Along with her husband and two children, she now calls Aldinga Beach in Adelaide her home, where her studio is based. She recently returned to the studio after taking parental leave and is now looking to grow Carla Grace Art and branch out further to reach collectors and opportunities.  

From her childhood through to her mid-20s, Carla moved between Zimbabwe, New Zealand, Zambia and Australia. Growing up in the tropical savannas in Zimbabwe, she remembers how her parents would teach her about the environments and wildlife around her. She learnt how to track animals, read their markings and behaviours and accept them as part of life.  

“I really can’t picture a world without animals, so if I can help create genuine connections between causes that protect animals and their audiences that can generate lasting change, I want to be a part of that.” 

"Historically, the art world is a male dominant industry. Art was created by men, for men. I don't just want to be the best female wildlife artist. I want to be the best wildlife artist, regardless of my gender. Yes, I am a full-time artist, and a mum, I don't believe the two are contradictory."