David Shepherd: Artist and Conservationist

The Man Who Loves Giants is an autobiography by David Shepherd, who achieved more than most could have in three lifetimes. He painted a variety of subjects, founded the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, renovated and restored steam engines, and appeared on radio and television. His friends ranged from showbiz celebrities to sportsmen and women, and British and European royalty to internationally influential politicians and presidents. He was awarded the Order of the Golden Ark by Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands and the Order of Distinguished Service, First Class, by President Kaunda. This biography by J. C. Jeremy Hobson is a unique portrait of a remarkable man.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2022
Publisher: Quiller Publishing Ltd

In 1975, David Shepherd authored The Man Who Loves Giants, an autobiography that showcased his remarkable achievements even at the age of forty-four. Over the years, until his passing in 2017, Shepherd pursued a diverse range of passions. He painted a wide array of subjects, established the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, undertook the renovation and restoration of various items, including steam engines and dolls houses, and made appearances on both radio and television. Shepherd's extroverted nature led him to express his enthusiasm for "things large and exciting," particularly elephants. However, his love for grandeur extended beyond animals to encompass his ownership of several full-sized steam engines, including locomotive number 92203, famously known as Black Prince.

Shepherd's circle of friends encompassed a diverse range of individuals, including showbiz celebrities, renowned sportsmen and women, British and European royalty, as well as internationally influential politicians and presidents. His contributions to conservation in Zambia earned him the prestigious Order of the Golden Ark from Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands. Additionally, he received the Order of Distinguished Service, First Class, from President Kaunda. Her Majesty The Queen honored David with the OBE and CBE. While Shepherd is now renowned for his African wildlife paintings, his artistic portfolio also included scenes from London, planes, boats, trains, English landscapes, and bygone rural life.

Since Shepherd's autobiography, no book has provided such a comprehensive account of his life, painting, and conservation work. J. C. Jeremy Hobson, a professional author and the youngest son-in-law of Shepherd, has authored this biography, which draws upon family archives, photographs, private diaries, and reminiscences to offer a unique portrait of a remarkable man. Through this biography, readers gain privileged access to the personal journey of David Shepherd, shedding light on his artistic achievements, philanthropic endeavors, and unwavering dedication to preserving the natural world.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781846893322