Wader Lake works

Our reserve team are working on Wader Lake today (Wednesday 27 November) which may cause disturbance to the wildlife in the area. Thank you for your patience.

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Artist of the month - Tom Vaulks

WWT Washington Wetland Centre is delighted to present the work of painter Tom Vaulks, on display and on sale throughout April.

Tom, originally from Easington Colliery, has been producing his impressive large-scale pieces since 1999, following an art course at a local college.

A former pavior and drainer for Sunderland City Council, Tom was diagnosed with oral cancer in 1996 and underwent two major operations, which resulted in his early retirement.

He said: “I went to Shiney Row College and studied watercolour painting and all aspects of painting and drawing for three years.”

A member of both Houghton-le-Spring and Hetton Art Clubs, the 65-year-old’s main interest lies in painting birds, but he also enjoys landscape painting and anything to do with the natural world.

“I have had exhibitions at Seaton Holme Discovery Centre, Durham Botanical Gardens, Gibside Chapel and WWT Washington Wetland Centre,” added Tom, who now lives in Houghton-le-Spring.

“I have entered competitions and exhibitions at other venues, through the art clubs, and I have now taken up carving and wood-turning as an additional interest to compliment my painting. I hope to be able to combine these in future exhibitions”.

This is Tom’s third exhibition at WWT Washington. To purchase his work, please enquire at the gift shop. Please note that 35% commission, plus 20% VAT of any sale will be donated directly to the work of The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust.

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