100 Artworks for a Koala entry by Sarah Hardy (Popcorn Blue). Title: ‘Rengo the Rescue Koala’ – prismacolor pencil on rag
Sarah HARDY (Popcorn Blue)
Artist and illustrator based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
‘Sparking imaginations everywhere’
100 Artworks for a Koala entry: Title: ‘Rengo the Rescue Koala‘
Size: W 50cm x H 60cm | Medium: Prismacolor pencils on rag
Earlier this year [2020], a young koala was found at the foot of a tree in the Otway Ranges National Park in Victoria. He was orphaned, riddled with ticks and severely undernourished. This koala was rescued and given the name of “Rengo”. It was here that I was lucky enough to meet Rengo, have a cuddle and hear his story. Unfortunately, Rengo was one of the many koalas that did not survive. However, he will be remembered in this artwork “Rengo the Rescue Koala”. I tribute this artwork to all the tireless rescuers who nurture, hand-feed and nurse these orphaned koalas, enabling them to be released back into their natural habitat. I tribute this piece to all the volunteer vets who offer their time and expertise to help keep these beautiful animals alive and well. I tribute this piece to the environmentalists out there planting trees and creating awareness for the plight of the koala. And finally, I tribute this piece to the koala, for its beauty and quietness. There has never been a more important time to raise awareness for these incredible creatures. May they have a long future in our world.” Sarah Hardy (Popcorn Blue)
Artist bio
Sarah Hardy – dreamer, illustrator and artist with a background in graphic design and children’s storybook illustrations. Sarah is a seasoned professional and works from her home studio in Melbourne. Children big and small, continue to love the delicious detail in every Sarah Hardy illustration with many homes, nurseries and bedrooms adorned with the magical prints that are designed to delight. The lovable collection of Australian fauna and story book animals celebrates Sarah’s stunning skill, wild imagination and passion for the furriest of friends. She established her own company and brand in 2010 – Popcorn Blue.
Artist book illustrations
- Australians All Love Easter Eggs (Scholastic 2020)
- Bird Bird and other stories (Little Steps Publishing 2018)
- Anna Ant’s Antics and other stories (Little Steps Publishing 2018)
- Robbie Robot to the Rescue and other stories (Little Steps Publishing 2018)
- Bolton Boys Balloon Adventure and other stories (Little Steps Publishing 2017)
- Hare ’n There (Trellech Publishing 2017)
- The Hokey Pokey (Scholastic Australia 2013 – now in its 3rd edition)
- Illustrator, Barnowlby Bubbles (Little Steps Publishing 2010)
Artist contact
instagram: @popcornblue.illustrator