Galapagos Islands In Depth
David McEown
We have just returned home after an inspiring three-week adventure in Ecuador, highlighted by an unforgettable photographic and sketching journey to the Galápagos Islands. This video captures some of the highlights and wildlife encounters we had with Tototosir , Waved albatross, Galapagos penguins and many more creatures from above and below the oceans surface. Thank you to Daisy Gilardini for organizing this intensive and well organized itinerary for our group, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the unique wildlife and landscapes. Video by David McEown and Daisy Gilardini.
“Galapagos Penguin,” 14 x 11 inches, watercolour.
Another highlight of our recent trip to the Galapagos Islands was seeing the endemic Galapagos penguin. It is the only penguin that lives near and just north of the Equator and has adapted to the warm climate, although it relies on the cooling Humboldt current. It is listed as endangered, so conservation efforts are crucial for protecting these penguins.
“Galápagos Tortoise” – 11 x 14 inches, watercolour, painted on location in the Galápagos, May 2026 (sold).
Spending time painting and sketching these magnificent giant tortoises felt like stepping back in time. Capturing their slow, deliberate movements and the textures of their weathered shells was both a challenge and a joy.
“Waved Albatross,” 11 x 14 inches, watercolour.
One of the many highlights of our recent trip to the Galapagos Islands was visiting the breeding site of the Waved Albatross. The choreography of the mating ritual was stunning to photograph and sketch. These birds are listed as critically endangered, and most only breed in the protected area of Española Island.
“Bartolomé Island”, 11 x 14 inches watercolour. Painted from the lookout view of this uninhabited 1.2 square kilometres volcanic islet with great views of Pinnacle Rock catching the sunrise.