We made this painting in the wilderness of Mkomazi National Park in northern Tanzania with a venerable baby bull elephant who came to be known as Mr Tembo. Lost to his herd, Tembo happened upon a surprised askari in his hut at the bottom of the air strip in the middle of the night. It was to be a serendipitous encounter for both the baby elephant and his new family: the Fitzjohn’s and their caring Tanzanian team headed by Zakariah, who cared for and raised this wonderful little chap for many years. Suzi and I were privileged to meet Tembo on numerous visits as was my daughter Kora. I will never forget her first meeting and the gasp of joy she uttered as Tembo gently offered out his trunk as greeting for her to gently blow into… an extraordinarily sentient animal that deeply effected all who came into contact with him.
Mr Tembo
Mr Tembo
Mkomazi, Tanzania (comes with Interactive art photo- see photography for sale)
Size: 152x122cm
Sepia, ochre and graphite on acid free 300g paper
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