The International Hummingbird Society: Sedona Hummingbird Festival – Capturing the Iridescence, Movement, and Light of the Hummingbird on Canvas (A Live Demonstration)

Presented by Gamini Ratnavira, Renowned Wildlife Artist 

Gamini will be painting the astounding Marvelous Spatuletail live on stage from start to finish. The Marvelous Spatuletail is an endangered hummingbird that is found in northern Peru. The International Hummingbird Society is currently helping raise money along with the American Bird Conservancy to help in the conservation efforts of this amazing bird.

Biography 

Gamini is a Sri Lankan-American wildlife artist of renown.  As a child, he had to sleep on a slanted bed when his pet baby elephant, Maya, sat on it. At the age of 19, he became a self-taught wildlife artist in his native country of Sri Lanka. He was inspired by the beautiful rainforest country he grew up in and wanted to share the beauty and wonder of nature with those around him He says: “As a Buddhist, respect for all life and nature is ingrained in my life philosophy and is a part of my canvas.  I have been fortunate to visit over 55 countries keeping detailed sketchbooks, taking photos, and creating paintings from these travels.” At one of his first art shows in 1979, president JR Jayewardene blessed the ceremony, and over 150 paintings were sold in that exhibit. The Ratnavira name means “Hero of Gems” and their caste is jewelers. After his father saw his success as an artist, he gave his blessing on his wildlife art career, versus following the family business of gem and jewelry design.  The president of Sri Lanka collected his work and named him the Chief Advisor to him on Wildlife and Conservation for the Department of Wildlife. After touring with Prince Philip through the country, they worked together on “Let them Live”, an elephant conservation program with the World Wildlife Fund and he designed elephant stamps in addition to 34 other postage stamps for his country. Gamini was also commissioned by the President to paint a 9 foot mural of Ringneck Parakeets, for the airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka, receiving over $237,000 US Dollars.

Part of the Sedona Hummingbird Festival

Purchase tickets here