Inspired by the elegant Cape giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa) which has rounded blotchy spots with a light tan background. These animals fascinated me as the sub species differ slightly form region to region in colour and spots variations.

The giraffe is a herbivore and lives in woodlands and savannahs feeding on shoots of the acacia tree, fruits and flowers. Unfortunately like so many of the other iconic animals in Africa uder persecution this species is now listed as vulnerable and in danger of becoming extinct. However one must never give up 'hope' that we can indeed save them in the long run.

I chose to paint 'Ithemba' in oil on stretched canvas using a multi-layering technique.