Wildlife in watercolour: Meet Rachel Spreckley

By Laura Ross

Communications Officer, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

Taking inspiration from the natural world on her doorstep, Rachel has created a stunning collection of paintings featuring birds found on the nature reserve. They are now on display on the art wall in the Discovery Centre.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I worked as a womenswear designer for 12 years before moving into interiors, but about seven years ago, I found my way back to my first love—drawing and painting. Over time, I became more and more drawn to painting wildlife, especially birds. Wading birds like Avocets and Curlews have completely captured my heart.

How do you connect with nature?

As a family, we spend a lot of time at local nature reserves. Both of my sons are keen birdwatchers, and my husband’s into wildlife photography, so it’s a bit of a shared obsession! Rye Harbour is one of our favourite spots—it’s such a beautiful place, right on the coast, and the café at the visitor centre is a lovely bonus. We feel really lucky to have it so nearby.

Where do you find inspiration for your creative work?

I mostly paint wildlife I’ve seen myself—using quick sketches and photos I've taken while out and about. I think there’s something really important about having that personal connection to what you’re painting. Watercolour is my main medium, and I try to capture a sense of movement and life in my work. I show and sell my paintings at various exhibitions and events around Kent and Sussex, and I also open up my studio in Kent to visitors. On top of that, I run watercolour workshops where I share my favourite techniques and tips for painting wildlife.

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If you love Rachel's work, pop in and see her latest exhibition on the art wall in the Discovery Centre or head to her website.