The Wader (Woodcock) by Jasper Leadbeater

Medium

Mixed media on spent shotgun cartridges

Dimensions

H70cm x W59cm x D7cm

Description

A striking contemporary wildlife piece depicting a woodcock in flight, set against a meticulously constructed background of spent shotgun cartridges.

Notes

This composition captures the distinctive form and movement of the woodcock, its outstretched wings rendered through layered stencil work and carefully applied spray paint. The dynamic positioning of the bird creates a strong sense of motion that carefully contrasts the structured, repeating pattern of the cartridge bases beneath. Leadbeater's intent is to reframe objects associated with force, akin to a shot gun cartridge, and reframe them; in this case, a game bird, which may become victim to such force, is rendered on top or above the shells in flight while its threat remains still. A poignant piece, 'The Wader' embodies country sporting while also implying empathy for the creature. The use of reclaimed materials introduces both texture and narrative, subtly referencing country sport while transforming these elements into an intricate and visually compelling surface.

About Jasper Leadbeater

Jasper Leadbeater is a self-taught artist whose early passion for fine art and drawing developed into a successful career built on detailed pencil commissions. His curiosity and environmental awareness led him to experiment with spent shotgun shells as an unconventional canvas, forming the foundation of a distinctive and recognisable style. Drawing inspiration from the countryside, his work brings together traditional country pursuits with a contemporary approach to animal portraiture, using intricately hand-drawn and hand-cut stencils combined with spray paint.

Through continued experimentation, his focus has evolved towards capturing the beauty of the animal kingdom, particularly within Highland settings, resulting in work that feels both modern and deeply connected to the natural world. Browse all our Jasper Leadbeater pieces.