About the Artist -
Julie Cunningham

Julie Cunningham is the artist behind Sutherland Feather Art. Originally from Doncaster, she now lives on a smallholding near a friendly village in the East Riding of Yorkshire. She describes this move as one of the best decisions she and her husband have ever made—it gave her the freedom to embrace her love of animals, the outdoors, and art.​
Life on the farm, surrounded by nature and wildlife, has become Julie’s greatest inspiration. Over time, she explored different materials to express what she saw and felt, eventually discovering a truly unique medium: feathers.​
 
Julie now creates detailed miniature paintings on feathers naturally shed by her own flock. Each piece is carefully hand-painted using fine acrylics, often featuring birds, animals, and scenes from rural life. No two feathers are the same, and her ability to capture such fine detail on such a delicate surface is what makes her work truly special.​
 
Feathers also carry a deep personal meaning for Julie. For many, a white feather is thought to offer comfort, encouragement, or be a sign that a loved one is nearby. Julie began noticing feathers turning up in the most unexpected places—especially during moments of loss or emotional reflection. After the heartbreaking passing of her grandson at just 17 days old, these feathers seemed to appear more often, offering quiet moments of comfort and connection.​
 
What was once simply part of life on the farm has taken on new purpose. Rather than being discarded, these feathers are now transformed into heartfelt works of art—each one filled with intention, memory, and beauty.​
 
Julie now works alongside her daughter, Zoe Cunningham, who shares her love of wildlife and creativity. Together, they continue to grow Sutherland Feather Art, creating meaningful, nature-inspired pieces that speak to people from all walks of life.​
 
Thank you for visiting Sutherland Feather Art—where nature, memory, and fine detail come together in every handmade piece.