Prey – Leila Jeffreys

With Prey, Leila Jeffreys captures the beauty and grandeur of owls, eagles and kites with breathtaking intricacy and exquisite detail.

The eyes of the birds peer myopically at the camera, their feathers smooth and graceful, with individual patterns flowing in delicate shapes and curves. Their amber and tan plumage leaps off the walls with a painterly technique that renders each picture unique and powerful.

Each has a story and a name that is detailed in an accompanying narrative. To Jeffreys these creatures have an anthropomorphic quality which is amply demonstrated in the photos. Take for example, Ash, a grey falcon whose profile nobly conveys his endurance of suffering.

This is more portraiture than wildlife photography and the stark white backgrounds add to the immediacy and intimacy of each image.

A truly stunning and satisfying display, Prey speaks of the wonder of the natural world and advocates its preservation with a deafening silence. (LR)

Until Sep 28, Olsen Irwin Gallery, 63 Jersey Rd, Woollahra, free, timolsengallery.com