2026
Evening Reflections – Northern Shoveler
by Joseph Koensgen
About the Painting
“The landscape in Manitoba is dotted with wetlands and marshes that are exciting places to explore when all the birds return during the spring migration. When I’m in these places, I’m often drawn to scenes with strong light, and the bright early evening sun was perfect for this pair of Northern Shovelers. I wanted this light to really bring out the varied colors of the female’s brown feathers and orange bill, as well as the rusty colored flank and green head of the male. The grasses emerging out of the shallow water are indicative of the habitat they prefer, where they use their uniquely shaped bills to filter out seeds and invertebrates. On these calm sunny evenings, I love how the water becomes like glass, creating these crisp reflections that show the calmness of the day. These are some of my favorite times to be out in nature where there is no shortage of inspiration.”
-Joseph Koensgen
About the Artist
Joseph Koensgen
Manitoba wildlife and nature artist Joseph Koensgen has always been fascinated with the world around him. His interest in animals and inclination for art meant that from an early age he was drawing and painting wildlife.
Being self-taught, he developed his skill by studying the art of his favourite wildlife painters and drawing inspiration directly from nature. In 2008 he began to focus on creating the work he is known for today, winning the people’s choice award at the first showing of his work. As he continued to share his paintings, he gained more recognition, and in 2013 was featured in Art Business News Magazine’s 30 under 30, “Young Artists Revolutionizing the World of Fine Art”. He has also had numerous prints with Ducks Unlimited Canada, and in 2018 was given their highest award of Artist of Year.
He is often exploring wild places with a camera to capture the images that he eventually brings to life in his paintings. Working hard to represent nature accurately, while creating dynamic pieces of art which reflect his desire to share the beauty of nature. His passion for wildlife conservation is a large part of why he paints, with the hope that his paintings will inspire the same in everyone who sees his art. He is a member of Artists for Conservation and an elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists.
