Renowned artist Ann Biggs kicks off awe-inspiring autumn

An awe-inspiring autumn awaits visitors to the wetlands at WWT Welney as artist Ann Biggs kicks off the season with her beautiful gallery.

Ann’s way of capturing the beauty and wonder of wetland wildlife can be seen in her gallery at WWT Welney this September and October.

Ann’s gallery in the visitor centre is the perfect introduction to what you can hope to experience once you take to the hides and trails to soak up the highlights that wetlands offer this season.

Relax to the whispers of willow and reed swaying in the breeze, marvel at the autumnal sights and sounds and you too may even be inspired to capture your unforgettable moments in sketches or journals.

Ann Biggs said of her inspiration taken from Welney: “Living as near to the Welney reserve as l do, it has always been my ‘go to place’ to watch and draw, recording the scenery and wildlife which in turn inspires the work that you will see in this exhibition.

“I love the seasons particularly winter where water battles with the land and provides an endless source of material for my work. Watching a trio of hunting peregrines on an icy, wind-swept morning is one of my most treasured memories.

“I hope visitors enjoy looking at my work and I look forward to meeting people at my ‘meet the artist’ sessions.”

You can meet Ann herself and find out how she creates her fantastic works with ‘Meet the Artist’ days at WWT Welney: This Saturday, September 14 and on Saturday, October 12. Both events will run from 10am to 2pm.

Emma Brand, events and marketing officer at WWT Welney said: “Autumn is a fantastic time to explore the widest reaches of our wetlands before the water levels rise in winter. Making the most of late summer wildlife like dragonflies, swallows, and hobbies; while taking in the many changes as new wildlife arrives and colours turn across the landscape makes for an awe-inspiring season.

“Our team are busy across the wetlands caring for the habitat and making preparations for winter, and beyond. Our volunteers are vital to not only help with these tasks but also share the seasonal splendours with our visitors.

“We always hope that the weather will be kind and give us time to enjoy low water levels, just splashes here and there to benefit the wildlife, but not overwhelm the habitat.

“Right now, there is so much to experience and soak up, benefitting our physical and mental wellbeing before we head towards the shortest days of the year.”

Enjoy the last of the summer sun whilst embracing the cooling breeze of autumn by exploring the hides, summer walk, tansy trail and Lady Fen routes.

With an enthusiastic team of volunteers and staff ready to share their love of wetlands in autumn, there are a range of opportunities to enjoy a helping hand if you are starting out as well as plenty of trails to find time and space to enjoy quiet moments.