The Opportunist

Created on Walnut

Dimensions: 52cm x 33cm

Set beneath a lush woodland canopy, The Opportunist captures a delightful moment of mischief and nature’s quiet comedy. Two squirrels, utterly absorbed in their feast of acorns and chestnuts, are locked in a battle against gravity and their own insatiable appetites. Oblivious to the world beyond their treasure trove, they fail to notice a clever little mouse lurking nearby.

The opportunist seizes his moment, a plump acorn ripe for the taking, and launches a stealthy heist. In his mind, he is the Robin Hood of the woodland, a tiny hero stealing from the oblivious and sharing with, well, himself.

This light-hearted scene celebrates the humour and harmony of the natural world, where every creature, great or small, plays its part in the eternal quest for survival. Created on walnut, the piece combines fine detail with warmth and character. As with all my works, the reverse of the wood tells the story behind the image, offering a glimpse into the inspiration and process that brought it to life.