I think it’s about time for another artist post. I stumbled across this one today which I find fascinating. Exotic World Gifts. Two artist, Liz and Mark, create a variety of art and textiles that are influenced by other cultures. One category of art they showcase is elephant art. Liz and Mark have found elephants that actually paint! And the paintings are amazing! The site says:
“Only some elephants enjoy and have this amazing talent to paint. These elephants are treated very well and learn to paint with positive behavioral training techniques with favorite foods and positive words and touch. We have done considerable research and are in contact with high level officials such as the Special Pachyderm Advisor to the Thai Queen’s Foundation; research teams from the Smithsonian; veterinarians from the Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Sciences; Mahout University; and many others to ensure that the highest standards of elephant management are followed.”
Here’s a video of the artist at work—
That’s so incredible. Such gentle creatures. I’m excited because Liz and Mark are going to be at an art walk that I’m attending this weekend. I can’t wait to see this in person.
