A Celebration of Wildlife in Art - 1996
by Debra Solomon
Nature lovers at heart, and conservationists by conviction, most wildlife artists gain their inspiration directly from the outside world. Whether they work in oils or acrylics, wood or metals, these artists strive to capture animals in their natural habitats, in natural lighting, and in realistic poses. Wildlife artists often highlight moments of action and suspense in their works, showing animals at their most free, energetic, and bold. And when they can't get to the savannas of Africa or the rainforests of South America, many artists find their inspiration--or their subjects--in zoos.
As lovers of wildlife and admirers of wildlife art, zoogoers also find themselves absorbed in the daily drama of nature. Interest in wildlife soon leads to recognition and awareness of the immediate dangers so many animals face today, with hunting and loss of habitat diminishing the numbers and quality of life of many species. The Zoo works to turn back what sometimes seems an inevitable tide of extinction with conservation and breeding programs, as well as educational programs aimed at wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.
In 1996, the Zoo again looks to art for help fulfilling this mission. From September 20 to 22 at the Zoo, the Friends of the National Zoo will present the second annual FONZ Wildlife Art Festival. About 100 artists, including those whose works are featured in the following pages, will present wildlife art in a variety of media, from acrylics and watercolor to sculpture and photography. The incredible popularity of this now-annual event attests to the growing support and concern for wildlife on the part of the general public.
The FONZ Wildlife Art Festival exists not only to raise awareness of wildlife issues and celebrate the natural beauty of wild animals--it aims to support the Zoo as well. A portion of the proceeds from the FONZ Wildlife Art Festival will help fund endangered species education programs at the Zoo.
(ZooGoer 25(5) 1996. Copyright 1996 Debra Solomon. All rights reserved.)
