Michaela Strachans
review.
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Michaela Strachans review. |
Due for release on 10th December 2003 is the signed and numbered limited edition DVD (600 copies) of `Wild at Art' produced by David Felber who followed Gary on his research trip to Kenya last year.
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The documentary follows Gary through the creation of a new drawing from start to finish. It begins at The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust's orphanage in Nairobi, Gary`s love and enthusiasm for the orphaned elephants is clearly captured as he and long-time friend and fellow conservationist Rula Lenska get close to the orphaned elephants there. I could have watched the film of the calves at play all day. Interviewing Daphne Sheldrick, Rula learns about the astonishing dedication and hard work that goes into rearing the orphans in Nairobi. I had never realised just what a mammoth task (no pun intended) it is to look after such infants.
Moving on to Tsavo East National Park, Gary and Rula meet the 23 older orphans who are living semi-wild in the park and beginning the long process of integration into the wild. Here Gary really gets the chance to study the elephants at close quarters in their natural habitat. Gary`s smile was infectious as he stood amongst such a large group of elephants; it was a joy to watch.
Finally at Gary`s studio in Ibiza, with the use of time-lapse photography, we see the new elephant drawing created before our eyes as the master works his magic. It was lovely to finally see the finished drawing and all the more special having just watched Gary with the elephants a few minutes before.
Only available on the DVD is a further 26 minutes of extra footage where Gary discusses his early career and development as an artist. Talking with Rula, Gary then brings us up to date with some of his most recent and future work and the creative process that went into them. This I found particularly interesting and made me look again at some of my prints with renewed interest. Rula also talks about how schools, companies or individuals can `adopt' an orphaned elephant through the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (see links page for the website). Oh yes, and some very funny out-takes, well you know what they say about working with children and animals.
The DVD gives collectors a wonderful insight into how Gary creates his remarkable drawings and his passion for conservation, with The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and Born Free Foundation as the beneficiaries of the work put in by David Felber and the many sponsors who supported the project. By purchasing the DVD you will not only own a piece of work which enhances your appreciation of the artwork already on your walls, but also contribute to the continued survival of some of the majestic animals with which we share this planet.
The DVD will be available from Born Free at £50 and includes the documentary `Wild at Art' running time 40 minutes with the 26 minutes of additional material. In addition the pack will include three 6" by 4" photos that Gary took in Kenya of elephants. The unlimited VHS video featuring just the documentary `Wild at Art' will be available at the same time.
Orders for the DVD or video can be made through Born Free by calling 01403 240170 and asking for Trish Loveland.
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the orphans in Nairobi. |
Stuart Hoyle, Rula Lenska. |
WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS:
BMG Zomba Production Music
Roy Carr-Hartley
Jason Cuddis
Kiki Dee and Carmelo Luggeri
De Montfort Fine Art
Goldhawk Media Limited
Stuart Hoyle Associates
Kenya Airways
Kenya Safari Lodges & Hotels Ltd
Keyframe
Rula Lenska
Lonely Planet Publications
Ken Morse Limited
NPL Printers Limited
Oasis Television
PAG Ltd (batteries)
Panasonic Broadcast Europe
Panasonic UK Limited
Pyser-SGI Limited (Fujinon lens)
Ann Scott Associates
Serena Hotels - East Africa
Sue Smith
Soundkit Limited (microphones)
ViewFinders Limited
All Galleries/Framing shops that sponsored this programme and everyone who offered their facilities, services or goods at discounted rates
