About Chris

Christopher B. Walden is a nationally recognized wildlife artist whose journey began far from the forests and fields of North America. Originally from Auckland, New Zealand, Chris came to the United States in 1979 for what was intended to be a 30-day tour. Over four decades later, he’s still here—having built a celebrated career capturing the majesty of wildlife through his paintbrush.

Chris’s deep-rooted passion for the outdoors began in childhood. Growing up in New Zealand, he explored everything from the rugged bush and sheep farms to the vast waters of the South Pacific. Those early experiences sparked a lifelong fascination with nature and instilled a sense of reverence for the animal kingdom. Whether fly-fishing mountain streams for trout or chasing marlin on open waters, Chris is an avid outdoorsman who lives the world he paints.

After relocating to the U.S., Chris was inspired by the diverse American landscape and wildlife. He began documenting his new environment through art, applying his keen eye for detail and profound understanding of animal behavior. His highly realistic style and ability to tell powerful stories through his paintings quickly earned him a devoted following. Whether it’s the subtle tension in Sittin’ Ducks or the bold confrontation in Conflict of Interest, Chris brings the drama and dignity of nature to life on canvas.

At his core, Chris identifies first as a father, then as a lover of the outdoors—and, as he humbly puts it, just "a Kiwi from New Zealand who paints what he knows and has been lucky enough to make a living from it."

Chris is also deeply committed to conservation. He believes that preserving the wildlife he paints is essential—not just for his art, but for future generations. Over the past 30 years, he has partnered with leading conservation organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ruffed Grouse Society, Quail Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and the Three Valley Trust. His donated artwork has helped raise over $28 million for habitat protection and wildlife conservation across the U.S.

Chris's commitment to conservation extends globally. In his native New Zealand—home to one-third of the world’s most endangered bird species—he founded the South Pacific Artist Conservation Effort (SPACE). Through SPACE, Chris leads 13-day guided tours for small groups of outdoorsmen, sharing the landscapes of his youth while raising funds for New Zealand Ducks Unlimited and the Fish & Game Board.

Blending artistic mastery with environmental advocacy, Christopher B. Walden’s work speaks to the heart of nature’s beauty and fragility. His art is more than representation—it is an invitation to experience the wild world in all its raw, untamed splendor.