Matriarch
18” x 25”
Soon to be released as a limited edition print
The copyright of all paintings shown on this site are owned and retained by the artist.
Copyright © 2007 -
Information from the artist:
I saw this amazing creature emerging from a woodland area in Lake Manyara National Park (Tanzania). She approached the vehicle before walking past and meeting with a younger elephant and her calf. Although her movements appeared soft and graceful, the power that she could have, enough to demolish our car in a single sweep, was very present. I was also aware that this matriarch had to bear the responsibility of keeping her family safe through the dangers of Africa. I wanted to convey this power and responsibility in this piece. I created a feeling of triumph over tribulation by using strong colours and contrasts of red, orange and green in the background. These contrasts oppose one another creating a feeling of uncertainty in the background. However, as we move to the foreground, I used colours that blended together more harmoniously, giving the sense of moving onto a safer place. The dust around the elephant gives a feeling of power, and that the elephant is pushing forward towards safer ground.