A SOUTH Tawton woman has received a BBC Wildlife Artist of the Year award after reaching the competition final with not one, but two paintings.

Diane Bailey was voted overall winner in the category 'British Mammals' with her painting of a rat in her trademark bold and impressionistic style.

People will get a chance to see Diane's latest work as part of Devon Open Studios event at Belstone Village Hall this month.

There were a record-breaking number of entries for the BBC competition this year —1,407 — and a very high standard, but eventually the first round judges reduced the original entries to just 122 paintings. 

Diane said: 'There was strong competition, and given the extremely high calibre of work from some very well-known artists, I was honoured to reach the finals, and amazed when told I was a winner.'

The winning painting named 'Wonder' depicts a rather scruffy rat.

'I wanted to capture the sensitivity, intelligence and resourcefulness of this creature, to hopefully negate some of its undesirable reputation,' she said.

Diane is well-known for her vibrant images of indigenous creatures, but has recently turned her attention to also depicting those critically endangered.

Her paintings may be bold but always display carefully observed details to bring life and authenticity to her work.

The artist said she was looking forward to taking part in the Devon Open Studios event.

'I have exhibited in numerous exhibitions and galleries but Devon Open Studios is probably the most exciting,' she said.

'After the success of the past two years I will again be in Belstone and thoroughly look forward to meeting people with a passion for art and wildlife.'

She will be exhibiting with Marielle Ebner-Rijke whose contrasting technique perfectly compliments Diane's work.

United by a wildlife theme, both artists look forward to welcoming visitors at this stunning location to talk about their work, inspirations and processes.

The exhibition will be open from September 7 to 22 every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

Entry is free, there is wheelchair access and cream teas will be served on Sundays.