William T Cooper Documentary

This intimate documentary follows world-renowned wildlife artist, William T. Cooper (Bill) as he opens the doors of his studio inviting us in to share his techniques and processes as he begins to create 30 exquisite scientifically accurate works of art for his final exhibition.  Now in his 80th year, his enthusiasm for painting and learning has not wained.

Appreciated globally by art collectors, Bill has been described by Sir David Attenborough, as “Australia’s greatest living scientific painter of birds – possibly the best in the world.”

Richly filmed over two years at his studio in the tropical rainforest of Far North Queensland, the audience will come understand the evolution of the artist and his dedication to perfection.  Bill’s interest in birds began early in life, later he became a land and seascape painter, before returning to birds.  In his hometown of Newcastle, he accepted advice along the way from other great artists such as Sir William Dobell.  This intriguing documentary explores the development and techniques leading up to finished works as we watch with fascination as artworks evolve.  With a reputation for accuracy and a personal mantra that each new work must be better than his last, over the next 8 months he is under pressure to create his best pieces.

His previous exhibition sold out in seventy minutes, but he wonders if times have changed and will anybody come this year?  

It will be his last exhibition but he will continue to paint all day everyday.    There is still so much he wants to achieve and so little time.