elephant progress - face complete

I have now finished the main part of the elephants face, I found it quite challenging as in all my works I strive to include as much information as possible, I love detail and to truly appreciate the unique existence of these animals I must consider every hair / wrinkle / fold - although I do admire those artists that can step back and capture a personality with a single stroke or leave the eye to the imagination on a looser reduced style. Once the ear and large trunk is completed I will upload another update photo, before doing the adults leg, I can't wait to start the baby now! It has taken time but I know it'll be worth it at the end.

I read a quote today-
'...nature is the single most important factor in life; however, it is also the most disregarded, misunderstood, and taken for granted...'

When we are children we grow up with these images of animals at their basic form and shapes, I feel very lucky to have the opportunity to capture these magnificent animals on paper and believe I cannot really appreciate their uniqueness until it has flowed through me and my artwork. They are disregarded at times, they are misunderstood, and we are all guilty of taking them for granted. Hopefully there are enough of us out there that will not let these incredible creatures fall, their existence enriches all of our lives. Please do visit those websites that raise money to protect animals in the wild.

face detail complete