Award-Winning Wildlife Artist
It's all about the eyes...
Vanessa Magdaleno Thorman
I create highly detailed watercolor portraits that celebrate the beauty, personality, and individuality of wildlife. Something many people don’t realize about my work is that each painting begins with a real bird or animal — a creature whose eyes, posture, or expression caught my attention and I knew I had to paint them.
I use only the highest-quality professional paints on 100% cotton, cold-pressed paper, crafted for centuries by European mills. The result is a collection of original paintings that aim to capture not just the physical likeness, but the spirit and presence of each animal that inspired them.
Awards & Recognition
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National Watercolor Society Exhibition
Recipient of the 2025 ScholARTship Award from the National Watercolor Society for Belle of the Ball.
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Georgia Watercolor Society National Exhibition
Recipient of the 2026 Holbein Artists Materials Award which recognizes outstanding achievement in watermedia.
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First Place - National Watercolor Exhibition
Winner of the Best in Show prize at the 2024 Mark Arts National Watercolor Exhibition.
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Original Watercolor Paintings
Something many people don’t realize about my work is that each painting...
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Note Cards & Stationery
Each card is a mini work of art. Literally. Printed on thick,...
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Collectible Desk Art - Hand-Signed Mini Prints
These hand-signed mini art prints come ready to display in sleek, self-standing...
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Canvas Totes & Travel Pouches
Art you can take with you These canvas zippered pouches and totes...
Let customers speak for us
from 24 reviewsI was first introduced to Vanessa's artwork by a friend in September! I, in turn, am introducing three friends to Vanessa's very special art block as holiday gifts, each personalized to the friends' passions! Incredibly, Vanessa started her artwork in response to the pandemic. She is truly gifted and I know my gal pals will adore her eye for detail and color.
I am so grateful I ran into Vanessa at an art show. I now own 3 of her pieces and will own more in the near future. Her perspective of the animals and the simplicity of her pieces make them just that more beautiful. I am partial to the birds, but everything in her collection is just stunning. You can't go wrong with anything she has done.
Love my Birds of a Feather print. It is the perfect companion for my Volcano Hummingbird. Wonderful coloring and details on both. So realistic that I can almost hear them singing!
The Jay is a member of the Corvidae family and one that I find most captivating. The artist has captured the Jays' brilliance, intelligence, and trickster nature perfectly. Vanessa Thorman expertly conveys the essence of the animals she has painted. There is such beauty in this world, and she translates it perfectly!
Bernard is even more adorable in person! The artwork is beautifully done and Bernard’s expression is so very cute. As soon as I saw him, I knew I would need to find a spot for him at home! Shipping was incredibly fast and he arrived safe and sound. Thank you!
My wife received a thank you note on one of Vanessa Thorman's fine art cards, featuring a Carolina bluebird. She immediately asked me to find a source for these cards. Perhaps we live in an age where the courtesy of a Thank You card has gotten somewhat lost. But we are pleased to support artists who still believe in that fine old tradition.
Definitely five stars for quality, prompt delivery, and the work of the artist.
I love these notecards. They are gorgeous and so close to life. We have been feeding the wild birds for 10 years and Vanessa has captured them with true authenticity.
Very talented. I love that we can be a part of it too. Also a beautiful gift for someone
The bluebird note cards are absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much. I definitely plan on purchasing more.
The cards are gorgeous. I bought several for holiday gifts - I can’t wait for everyone to see the work of this amazing artist.
I am thrilled by the naturalness of this little masterpiece! The Goldfinch is gorgeous and the colors are so rich and nuanced. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. The Customer service is wonderful, my package arrived quickly and well packaged. I highly recommend!
These cards are just as stunning in person as they are online. The rich colors on a high quality card make them perfect for any occasion. They arrived quickly and in beautiful packaging. I highly recommend and will be repurchasing.
Outstanding expression of a Cedar Waxwing. The perfect addition to my new bird-watching themed room! And the surprise card was equally and unexpectedly impressive. Highly recommend!