The African elephant is the largest animal walking the Earth. They play a pivotal role in shaping their habitat because of the enormous impact they have on factors ranging from fresh water to forest cover.
In recent years, growing demand for ivory, particularly from Asia, has led to a surge in poaching. Populations of elephants—especially in southern and eastern Africa—that once showed promising signs of recovery could be at risk due to the recent surge in poaching for the illegal ivory trade.*
*worldwildlife.org
This painting is an interpretation of Nick Brandt’s photograph of Igor, the 49 year old elephant who was slaughtered by poachers in 2009. The work is a 70×50 cm watercolor and ink painting produced in 2016. High quality gicleé prints can be purchased in my Etsy shop