I love gorillas - ever since I corresponded with Dian Fossey back in the 70's to be my graduate professor working towards my PhD in wildlife conservation. Life had other plans for me, though, so I never got to realize my dream of working with gorillas. But I did have the privilege of visiting them in Rwanda and Uganda a few years back. I realized then that had I gone there as a young student I never would have left. Painting their portraits today gives me a sense of being with them in their own private world… one that is precious and should be cherished. My hope is that this portrait will inspire people to learn more about them so they can be protected. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of my portrait will be donated to DIAN FOSSEY'S GORILLA FOUNDATION working to protect Mountain Gorillas and Eastern Lowland Gorillas.