Dear Collectors & Friends:

Like many wildlife artists, it has always been my dream to visit Africa and see the animals in their element. In January ‘06 I finally realized my dream when Ken and I spent two glorious weeks completely immersed in the African Bush of Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa. I had always heard you cannot describe Africa, you must experience it and now I understand why.

Not the most elegant prose nor best TV program can convey the musky scent of an elephant or the vibration you feel when a large male lion roars 20 feet away! The people I met helped complete the experience. The patient guides who shared their world, the staff who willingly posed for portraits and the children of the Lekgophung Primary School who shared their artwork and their smiles - the people of South Africa are some of the nicest I have ever met. Madikwe is a magical place and from the moment I arrived I was spellbound.

I hope you can experience it yourself one day, but meantime I am happy to share my interpretation in the wood paintings I completed (totally inspired) upon my return. The slide show is a small selection of photos, pastels paintings I did on site and some of the children’s artwork. Please feel free to contact me for more information and with your comments!

All the best and may YOUR dreams come true,
Joan

(Note: You may click on the individual pictures and scroll to the right to view more pictures
You can also use the arrow icons to advance the slide show)