A dream come true: I have always wanted to find ways to generate much needed income for causes that I feel passionately about. I have teamed up with the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Elephant Orphanage by auctioning my largest painting, to help the wild elephants of Kenya. This piece was created for the Stand Tall art exhibit at Old Crow Tattoo, where all pieces were to be nine feet tall and three feet wide. I had never painted at this scale, and was intimidated, to say the least. I had recently read an article about the incessant ivory poaching still happening to Africa’s elephants. I felt so sad in my heart, and I couldn’t believe this was still happening today. The painting became a dedication to the elephants and the plight of their species. It was painted with high quality spray paint and acrylic, using antique doilies and lace for texture, and a ton of love. This piece depicts a life size profile of an elephant, with a tear rolling down his face and dripping off of his tusk, then bursting in to a mandala of pattern and light. The finish of the tear is glossy, appearing to be wet against the rest of the painting.
I feel an incredible depth of appreciation and admiration for these majestic creatures. Their capacity for empathy is astounding. They are known to mourn their lost family members, expressing grief, crying, and even visiting graves year after year to pay respect. Their families are a vital part of their way of life, just like us. “Those Who Dare to Feel so Deeply” is the title of this homage to a precious species who needs our awareness and support.
The original painting is currently up for auction until the 29th of May, 2015, with 75% of the proceeds being donated to the Wildlife Trust. The link is here:
http://www.sheldrickwildlifetrust.org/html/auction_kathryn_june_painting.html
I also am printing a limited edition of this piece on canvas in two sizes, 2×6 feet, and 1×3 feet. Half of the proceeds from these prints will also be donated to the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. You may purchase these here: https://www.serpentfeathers.com/product/for-those-who-dare-to-feel-so-deeply/
Update: The auction ended successfully, with $6,000 raised for DSWT. I am beyond thankful for this opportunity to make an impact of this size, to a cause I care deeply about.