Elephant
AFRICAGorilla family Rwunda
Steve with darted Rhinoceros

Zebra watercolour painting by Stephen Powell
Saddle-billed stork
Saddle-billed stork
Crested Barbet
Lilac-breasted Roller
Giraffe and oxpecker

I was made an offer by a philanthropist couple to fund a trip for me to Africa. No strings attached just because it makes them happy to support the dreams of others. I found my self momentarily dumb struck at the generosity of the offer. Those that know me would be skeptical at the even the possibility of me being stuck for words. However this was such a time. I feel a great sense of pride that these people have thought me worthy of such a gift.

My aims will be:

  • For my work to reflect the energy generated by life changing encounters with the creature and environment of Africa.
  • To share the energy, knowledge and enthusiasm generated by the trip in a manner that reflects the generosity that made it possible.

Destinations:

Africa travel map South Africa, Botswana & Rwanda Siyafunda Volunteers Makalali Game Reserve
Maps with the kind permission of:
Botswana: Explore Worldwide
Rwanda: Intrepid Travel

I was loaned a copy of Whatever You Do, Don't Run - My Adventures as a Botswana Safari Guide. I'm sure this was intended as a pay back for my active support of the Australian sport of terrifying visitors with stories of our local killer wildlife. Drop Bears aren't in the same league as lions and agro elephants!

Other reading:
'AFRICA An Artists Journal' by Kim Donaldson
'In the Kingdom on Gorillas' by Bill Weber & Amy Vedder
'Silent Footsteps' by Sally Henderson
Lonely Planet: Africa, Watching Wildlife - East Africa & Southern Africa
The Rough Guide: First-Time Africa

For more photographs and stories of my travels see my blog - WILD PAINTER - STEVE'S BLOG.

 

Agressive LionessLarge male elephant drinking
Giraffe herd comes to drink