Danny has produced a limited edition of puffins at Bempton Cliffs on the East Yorkshire coast, with a percentage of profit from each print going to the RSPB.
The work shows a couple standing among wild flowers on the cliff, watching the small seabirds wheeling about.
We asked Danny about his art.
Q: What have you been working on in recent years, and where have you been exhibiting?
A: I have focused on capturing evocative scenes that celebrate British life, landscapes, and shared memories. My work often reflects nostalgic moments, from childhood games to atmospheric strolls through coastal views. My work is exhibited in galleries across the UK, where I hope my paintings resonate with collectors who appreciate both storytelling and a strong sense of place.
Q: Where are you based now and are you a full-time artist?
A: I’m originally from Wibsey in Bradford but now I am based in Brighouse and work as a full-time artist. I feel incredibly fortunate to devote my time entirely to creating art.
Q: Has your art changed at all since you began painting and exhibiting?
A: Yes, it has evolved significantly. Over time my style has matured to become more expressive and atmospheric. I’ve developed a stronger focus on light and mood. Today, my paintings aim not only to depict a scene but to evoke a feeling, whether it’s nostalgia, tranquillity, or quiet reflection.
Q: What drew you to the puffins at Bempton Cliffs? What do you love about them?
Puffins are such a special part of our coastline, and seeing them at Bempton Cliffs is something that truly stays with you. Their character and charm make them incredibly captivating subjects. I was drawn to the dramatic beauty of the cliffs and the joyful sight of puffins flying to and from their nesting sites. There’s a sense of peace and wonder in standing on those clifftops, looking out across the vast blue ocean. I’m delighted to be part of something that not only celebrates these remarkable birds but also helps support their future.
Q: Are you doing one painting or several and in what medium?
A: For the Bempton Cliffs piece , I first created an original painting that has a limited-edition giclée print of only 95 pieces. The original artwork was painted in oils, a medium that allows me to capture depth, texture, and atmosphere.
Q: What was hardest about capturing the puffin on canvas?
A: One of the greatest challenges was balancing accuracy with expression. Puffins have distinctive markings and vibrant beaks, so capturing their character while maintaining the atmosphere of the wider landscape required careful attention. Conveying their movement and the drama of these little birds was essential.
Q: Do you work from photographs, and if so, do you take them yourself?
A: Yes, I often work from reference photographs, many of which I take myself. Visiting locations first hand allows me to absorb the light, colours, and mood of a place to ensure the finished piece captures not just the detail but the essence of the ,experience.
Q: Have you painted birds before?
A: While my work frequently focuses on landscapes and narrative scenes, I have painted wildlife before but never puffins, you’ll often find a fox, deer, kingfisher and other creatures of the British Isles making an appearance in my artwork.
Q: How did you become involved with the RSPB? Why do you think it is important to support their work?
A: The idea of a charity edition arose through conversations about the painting, and I was delighted to get involved. Supporting the RSPB is incredibly important, as they play a vital role in protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats. Their work ensures that future generations will continue to enjoy the beauty of birds like the puffin along our coastlines.
Q: Have you got any exhibitions coming up?
A: I am continually working on new pieces and look forward to exhibiting future collections. Details of upcoming exhibitions will be announced soon, and I am excited to share my latest work with audiences and collectors alike.
Q: Please add anything else you wish to say.
A: That special stretch of the Yorkshire coastline from Flamborough to Bempton and beyond is truly breathtaking. This project celebrates both the beauty of the landscape and the joy of seeing puffins at their best.
I hope the artwork resonates with viewers and inspires a deeper appreciation for our natural heritage. It has been an honour to contribute to a cause that helps protect these remarkable birds and the places they call home. The limited edition piece is called Watching the puffins at Bempton Cliffs and is sold exclusively through the wonderful acorn gallery in Pocklington whose owners John and Diane have gone above and beyond and collaborated with the RSPB to make this happen.
*This limited edition charity fundraising puffin print is being sold by The Acorn Gallery, Pocklington, in conjunction with RSPB Bempton Cliffs. The prints were released for World Puffin Day on April 14.
Each puffin print sold from this edition will help to raise valuable funds for RSPB Bempton Cliffs, to help the valuable conservation work with the puffins. To se emore visit theacorngallery.co.uk/products/puffin-print-rspb-bempton-cliffs
*For more information on Danny and his work visit dannyabrahams.art
