Tue, Nov 1st, 2016

OUR AFRICAN ADVENTURE 2016

Our annual African safaris are always a great adventure. Just like the early African explorers, we never know what wildlife dramas will unfold before us. Of course, part of our adventure is sharing Africa with our friends and this year we had some wonderful friends along. We had some amazing experiences together, shared a lot of laughs, and became even better friends than when we started.

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This leopard was one of the high points of our Safari!
This leopard was one of the high points of our Safari!
I guess if you spend enough time in the Bush, sooner or later you will be in the right place at the right time for the perfect photograph. This was one of those moments!
This leopard was one of the high points of our Safari!
As always, our African adventure started in the beautiful city of Cape Town
As always, our African adventure started in the beautiful city of Cape Town
As always, our African adventure started in the beautiful city of Cape Town
Exploring the tip of Africa with our friends
Exploring the tip of Africa with our friends
Exploring the tip of Africa with our friends
 There Is nothing like the incredible view at the Cape point restaurant
There Is nothing like the incredible view at the Cape point restaurant
There Is nothing like the incredible view at the Cape point restaurant
We visited the black footed penguins just like the ones at our aquarium here
We visited the black footed penguins just like the ones at our aquarium here
We visited the black footed penguins just like the ones at our aquarium here
Tom and Monica at one of the few things when reading beaches
Tom and Monica at one of the few things when reading beaches
Tom and Monica at one of the few things when reading beaches
Our view of the yacht harbor and table Mountain from our hotel
Our view of the yacht harbor and table Mountain from our hotel
Our view of the yacht harbor and table Mountain from our hotel
We visited our old friend, Dylan Lewis
We visited our old friend, Dylan Lewis
Dylan is a world-famous sculptor and has a beautiful park near Stellenbosch where he displays some of his larger pieces.
We visited our old friend, Dylan Lewis
Explaining the lost art of bronze sculpture
Explaining the lost art of bronze sculpture
Explaining the lost art of bronze sculpture
Whenever possible we tried to visit artists talk about art
Whenever possible we tried to visit artists talk about art
Whenever possible we tried to visit artists talk about art
This is one of my favorite pieces of Dylan's art
This is one of my favorite pieces of Dylan's art
This is one of my favorite pieces of Dylan's art
His sculpture garden is nestled in a beautiful valley and the landscaping is fantastic
His sculpture garden is nestled in a beautiful valley and the landscaping is fantastic
His sculpture garden is nestled in a beautiful valley and the landscaping is fantastic
Of course our friends, Laird and Michelle, enjoyed visiting his studio
Of course our friends, Laird and Michelle, enjoyed visiting his studio
Of course our friends, Laird and Michelle, enjoyed visiting his studio
Bobbi and Rick enjoyed interacting with a beautiful cheetah at the cheetah outreach foundation.
Bobbi and Rick enjoyed interacting with a beautiful cheetah at the cheetah outreach foundation.
Bobbi and Rick enjoyed interacting with a beautiful cheetah at the cheetah outreach foundation.
 The Stark-Conde' Winery
The Stark-Conde' Winery
One of our favorite stops is to visit Marie and her husband at Stark Conde'. Without a doubt, they have one the most beautiful settings in South Africa
The Stark-Conde' Winery
Nothing like a wine paired lunch hosted by our friends
Nothing like a wine paired lunch hosted by our friends
Nothing like a wine paired lunch hosted by our friends
Meeting with the president of Botswana
Meeting with the president of Botswana
While our friends and I were in Cape Town,Anne flew up to Gabrone, the capital of Botswana, to make a presentation to the president and the Minister of wildlife and tourism.
Meeting with the president of Botswana
We wanted to express our support to the president and his cabinet for outlawing wildlife trophy hunting.
We wanted to express our support to the president and his cabinet for outlawing wildlife trophy hunting.
I presented two large paintings of lions, for the presidential office and the Minister of Wildlife and tourism. It was covered by two Botswanan newspapers, radio and television. I think it really got the message across that the world supports them.
We wanted to express our support to the president and his cabinet for outlawing wildlife trophy hunting.
 Our friends,Willie And his wife Annatje In front of their unique home in Gabrone, Botswana
Our friends,Willie And his wife Annatje In front of their unique home in Gabrone, Botswana
Willie and Anna own grasslands lodge and pretty much finance the predator project there by themselves. They are personal friends with President Khama and set up my meeting with him. They are wonderful folks and dedicated conservationists.
Our friends,Willie And his wife Annatje In front of their unique home in Gabrone, Botswana
Our personal South African wine class
Our personal South African wine class
Our old friend and guide, Steve Bolnick, happens to be a wine expert as well as a wildlife expert. It is great to have a non biased opinion on South African wines and wine history.
Our personal South African wine class
Sailing around the Cape of good hope
Sailing around the Cape of good hope
Our last afternoon in Cape Town we did a sunset cruise on an old sailing vessel. Sailing around the point in seeing Cape Town nestled under the iconic table Mountain brought us back to the early days of Africa's history.
Sailing around the Cape of good hope
We then flew 1600 miles north to the Kalahari desert.
We then flew 1600 miles north to the Kalahari desert.
We visited our friends at grasslands Lodge where they condition problem Lions to coexist with farmers.
We then flew 1600 miles north to the Kalahari desert.
Their predator program is world-famous
Their predator program is world-famous
Where else can you be just a few feet from a pride of lions having dinner
Their predator program is world-famous
The Lions here are fed wildlife and cattle  and kept in huge penned areas
The Lions here are fed wildlife and cattle and kept in huge penned areas
The cattle are treated with the chemical which makes the lions sick, and after a while the lines will quit eating cattle and can be re-released into the wild.
The Lions here are fed wildlife and cattle and kept in huge penned areas
It's quite a thrill to watch them being fed from only a couple of feet away
It's quite a thrill to watch them being fed from only a couple of feet away
It's quite a thrill to watch them being fed from only a couple of feet away
It's certainly a great opportunity to get up close and personal with wild lions
It's certainly a great opportunity to get up close and personal with wild lions
It's certainly a great opportunity to get up close and personal with wild lions
These lions would've been murdered by farmers for killing their cattle
These lions would've been murdered by farmers for killing their cattle
It's quite a thrill to be woken up in the morning by the roaring of Lions only a couple of hundred feet from your bed
These lions would've been murdered by farmers for killing their cattle
While at grasslands, we also get to spend some time in the desert with the San bushman
While at grasslands, we also get to spend some time in the desert with the San bushman
While at grasslands, we also get to spend some time in the desert with the San bushman
The bushmen represent the oldest existing culture on the planet
The bushmen represent the oldest existing culture on the planet
The bushmen represent the oldest existing culture on the planet
They also raise painted dogs and grasslands
They also raise painted dogs and grasslands
The owner, Willie and his wife Annette grew up in Botswana and are strong conservationists. They personally support both the predator program and the painted dog breeding programs out of their own pockets.
They also raise painted dogs and grasslands
It was through their friendship the president of Botswana that I  got the idea of donating artwork to him.
It was through their friendship the president of Botswana that I got the idea of donating artwork to him.
Without their help, I could never of had hoped to meet the president of Botswana.
It was through their friendship the president of Botswana that I got the idea of donating artwork to him.
While with the bushmen, we learn how they live in the dry desert
While with the bushmen, we learn how they live in the dry desert
Here a bushman woman is hand making beads from ostrich shells. After the shell is broken into small pieces, the pieces are rounded and drilled by hand. It takes about a week and a half to make each necklace.
While with the bushmen, we learn how they live in the dry desert
The bushman kids are quite cute
The bushman kids are quite cute
It's hard to believe that in 1901 you could buy a hunting license to kill all the bushman and wild dogs you desired. They were both considered pests by farmers.
The bushman kids are quite cute
The bushman love me too draw on their hands- a temporary tattoo.
The bushman love me too draw on their hands- a temporary tattoo.
The bushman love me too draw on their hands- a temporary tattoo.
The bushmen are amazing trackers and hunters
The bushmen are amazing trackers and hunters
One day we were invited to accompany them on a hunt.
The bushmen are amazing trackers and hunters
Spending the day with the bushman was a magical experience
Spending the day with the bushman was a magical experience
It is fascinating to learn how the bushmen survive during the dry season in the Bush.
Spending the day with the bushman was a magical experience
I got the village shaman to work his magic on my sore neck
I got the village shaman to work his magic on my sore neck
I got the village shaman to work his magic on my sore neck
One evening we drove out to their village to see how they live
One evening we drove out to their village to see how they live
I was very moved because they had taken a piece of art featuring Xanama, the shaman of the village who had just passed away several months ago. They were honoring me by displaying my art.
One evening we drove out to their village to see how they live
Last year when we presented my art to Xanama
Last year when we presented my art to Xanama
This became a special moment in my life, seeing the look on his face when he saw my art. His only comment was," now all the bushmen will come to see me and my spirit". We have received requests from all over the world for a copy of this piece.
Last year when we presented my art to Xanama
We watch them hunt down their dinner,and as the sun set ,shared it with them
We watch them hunt down their dinner,and as the sun set ,shared it with them
We watch them hunt down their dinner,and as the sun set ,shared it with them
That night they did the hunting dance for us
That night they did the hunting dance for us
This ritual dance depicts the hunt for an oryx,( the Long straight horns of the Oryx are represented by the sticks) and tribe members represent the hunters and their dogs.
That night they did the hunting dance for us
The bushmen presented Jim and I with the tail of the Oryx as a show respect
The bushmen presented Jim and I with the tail of the Oryx as a show respect
These bushman cling to their age old ways and ,although we've seen many changes over the years, hope they can maintain their unique culture.
The bushmen presented Jim and I with the tail of the Oryx as a show respect
With  the deep red sun setting over the desert, we witnessed a timeless ritual
With the deep red sun setting over the desert, we witnessed a timeless ritual
With the deep red sun setting over the desert, we witnessed a timeless ritual
We have been visiting our bushman friends from a seven years now
We have been visiting our bushman friends from a seven years now
We have been visiting our bushman friends from a seven years now
At Little Vumbura camp,Sometimes you get trapped in your tent by rogue elephant
At Little Vumbura camp,Sometimes you get trapped in your tent by rogue elephant
The camps we stay in are open for wild animals to walk through. So it's not unusual to have an elephant rubbing on your tent platform or blocking your way to dinner at night
At Little Vumbura camp,Sometimes you get trapped in your tent by rogue elephant
As we breakfast we watch the sun rising in the east
As we breakfast we watch the sun rising in the east
Since most of the predators early in the morning, we get up early to catch all the action
As we breakfast we watch the sun rising in the east
Baby zebras are often born Brown and darken as they age
Baby zebras are often born Brown and darken as they age
Baby zebras are often born Brown and darken as they age
There few scenes more inspiring than a mother with her newborn
There few scenes more inspiring than a mother with her newborn
There few scenes more inspiring than a mother with her newborn
Most of my artistic inspiration comes from my sketches
Most of my artistic inspiration comes from my sketches
Most of my artistic inspiration comes from my sketches
There are few things more dangerous than a mother elephant protecting her baby
There are few things more dangerous than a mother elephant protecting her baby
There are few things more dangerous than a mother elephant protecting her baby
We spent almost 2 hours following this lioness
We spent almost 2 hours following this lioness
There's something magical about seeing a lion in the water- it's just something you don't expect
We spent almost 2 hours following this lioness
There few moments more magical than sunset in Africa
There few moments more magical than sunset in Africa
There few moments more magical than sunset in Africa
  There Is nothing like sundowners with friends
There Is nothing like sundowners with friends
Watching the sun go down as we trade stories with our friends and wonder what our friends in the United States are doing at that moment
There Is nothing like sundowners with friends
Often at night, we eat under the stars, and dance and sing with the staff
Often at night, we eat under the stars, and dance and sing with the staff
The staff of the camps are usually from local villages and they enjoy singing their local songs and dancing with us
Often at night, we eat under the stars, and dance and sing with the staff
At Duma Tau Camp,  we always try to watch the sundown from the pontoon boat
At Duma Tau Camp, we always try to watch the sundown from the pontoon boat
It was a calm beautiful day as we motored into the Linyati Channel, hoping to see elephants swimming across. Suddenly a storm appeared and 70 mile an hour winds churned up the water
At Duma Tau Camp, we always try to watch the sundown from the pontoon boat
The sea was angry that day my friend!
The sea was angry that day my friend!
Although it was pretty crazy when the storm began, after about 15 minutes it calmed down. I couldn't resist asking the girls to re-create the panic we experienced at first. Of course afterward, it turned out to be one of our fondest memories of the trip.
The sea was angry that day my friend!
Luckily the next night was beautiful and calm as we watched the sun slowly sink below the horizon
Luckily the next night was beautiful and calm as we watched the sun slowly sink below the horizon
Luckily the next night was beautiful and calm as we watched the sun slowly sink below the horizon
Each day we stop and sip cocktails and recount stories is the orange sun dips below the horizon
Each day we stop and sip cocktails and recount stories is the orange sun dips below the horizon
Each day we stop and sip cocktails and recount stories is the orange sun dips below the horizon
The key to covering 3000 miles in 15 days is the airplane
The key to covering 3000 miles in 15 days is the airplane
Africa is huge, as large as North America, Europe and Asia combined so the most efficient form of transportation has always been by air.
The key to covering 3000 miles in 15 days is the airplane
One of those magic moments every photographer prays for
One of those magic moments every photographer prays for
One morning as we drove around the grasslands of the Okavango Delta, we rounded a turn, in there in front of us was a leopard that climbed up in a dead tree to get a better view of some impala feeding nearby
One of those magic moments every photographer prays for
There few sights as interesting as watching elephants play in the water
There few sights as interesting as watching elephants play in the water
There few sights as interesting as watching elephants play in the water
The staff were incredible!
The staff were incredible!
We asked if we could have a" bush lunch" , and they created a barbecue with white linen tablecloths out in the bush in the middle of nowhere.
The staff were incredible!
Of course one of the most elegant, interesting  animals is the giraffe
Of course one of the most elegant, interesting animals is the giraffe
Of course one of the most elegant, interesting animals is the giraffe
Giraffes are very difficult to depict an art with their long neck's and tall bodies
Giraffes are very difficult to depict an art with their long neck's and tall bodies
Giraffes are very difficult to depict an art with their long neck's and tall bodies
What a beautiful animal!
What a beautiful animal!
What a beautiful animal!
Although leopards are nocturnal they often hunt in the early morning
Although leopards are nocturnal they often hunt in the early morning
Although leopards are nocturnal they often hunt in the early morning
As we watch the pack picking up a scent, they suddenly took off at a run
As we watch the pack picking up a scent, they suddenly took off at a run
As we watch the pack picking up a scent, they suddenly took off at a run
One morning we followed a pack of wild dogs chasing a pregnant antelope
One morning we followed a pack of wild dogs chasing a pregnant antelope
While dogs are very sophisticated in their hunting. Some of the dogs are hunters and will chase down pray for the pack. After killing the animal lay back off and wait for the young pups and older members of the pack to come and feed.
One morning we followed a pack of wild dogs chasing a pregnant antelope
After a 15 minute chase they took the  antelope down and killed it
After a 15 minute chase they took the antelope down and killed it
After a 15 minute chase they took the antelope down and killed it
Life in Africa isn't always pretty
Life in Africa isn't always pretty
We watched as the baby was taken by the alpha female of the pack to be given to her pups
Life in Africa isn't always pretty
A Cape starling- one of the most beautiful birds in Africa
A Cape starling- one of the most beautiful birds in Africa
As beautiful as they are standing still, they are even more beautiful as they spread their wings and create an iridescent blue streak across the sky.
A Cape starling- one of the most beautiful birds in Africa
Another beautiful bird- the Lily breasted roller
Another beautiful bird- the Lily breasted roller
Another beautiful bird- the Lily breasted roller
We flew out of Botswana and then circled Victoria Falls before landing
We flew out of Botswana and then circled Victoria Falls before landing
We flew out of Botswana and then circled Victoria Falls before landing
Although the water was extremely low this time of year -the rainbows were magnificent
Although the water was extremely low this time of year -the rainbows were magnificent
Although the water was extremely low this time of year -the rainbows were magnificent
Our  group friends at the falls
Our group friends at the falls
The water is very low since the dry season has been extended by global warming. Of course it made wildlife watching much easier because all the animals were gathered close to water sources
Our group friends at the falls
Of course the monkeys and baboons are always fascinating to watch
Of course the monkeys and baboons are always fascinating to watch
Of course the monkeys and baboons are always fascinating to watch
This is Lamisha, a baby was abandoned in the Bush almost 2 years ago
This is Lamisha, a baby was abandoned in the Bush almost 2 years ago
Sarah Has pledged to support Lamisha and ensure she has a proper education and all the opportunities possible for young woman.
This is Lamisha, a baby was abandoned in the Bush almost 2 years ago
We always enjoy visiting the rows of charity orphanage
We always enjoy visiting the rows of charity orphanage
We always enjoy visiting the rows of charity orphanage
Were not sure who enjoys our visit more the children or friends
Were not sure who enjoys our visit more the children or friends
Were not sure who enjoys our visit more the children or friends
Warthogs cut the grass at the Victoria Falls Hotel, in the mongoose keep it insect free
Warthogs cut the grass at the Victoria Falls Hotel, in the mongoose keep it insect free
Warthogs cut the grass at the Victoria Falls Hotel, in the mongoose keep it insect free
Flowering trees and bushes at the Victoria Falls Hotel are beautiful
Flowering trees and bushes at the Victoria Falls Hotel are beautiful
Flowering trees and bushes at the Victoria Falls Hotel are beautiful
We took our friends to the ARTS FOR ANIMALS wildlife Center
We took our friends to the ARTS FOR ANIMALS wildlife Center
While we taught classes at the wildlife Center, our friends had some one-on-one time with some of the kids from the school
We took our friends to the ARTS FOR ANIMALS wildlife Center
We got to see the new phase II addition to the wildlife Center
We got to see the new phase II addition to the wildlife Center
We built a large covered veranda outside the school room so that kids could meet and draw even when the classroom was locked up. However, it was so hot inside, we realize that it was a beautiful outdoor classroom.
We got to see the new phase II addition to the wildlife Center
While we were teaching at the classroom, our friends were getting  to know some of the kids personally
While we were teaching at the classroom, our friends were getting to know some of the kids personally
One of the great things children in the wilderness has done is create many lesson plans that visitors can use to teach the children about the world.
While we were teaching at the classroom, our friends were getting to know some of the kids personally
The smiles and optimism of these kids are truly infectious
The smiles and optimism of these kids are truly infectious
These children really grasp the importance of education to their future. They work hard to squeeze every drop of learning out of the day.
The smiles and optimism of these kids are truly infectious
Our friends, Laird and Michelle  donated 3000 wristbands to the
Our friends, Laird and Michelle donated 3000 wristbands to the " Animal Protector program"
These glow-in-the-dark wristbands say," I protect animals- our wildlife- my heritage- my future". It is so gratifying to see children and guides wearing our wristbands wherever we go.
Our friends, Laird and Michelle donated 3000 wristbands to the " Animal Protector program"
One of our classes proudly displaying their wristbands and posters
One of our classes proudly displaying their wristbands and posters
We teach several hundred kids every time we go to Africa, and hundreds more are taught through our programs and lesson plans at the wildlife Center and other ongoing programs.
One of our classes proudly displaying their wristbands and posters
Our last day of our trip we take a beautiful cruise on  the mighty Zambezi River to watch the sunset
Our last day of our trip we take a beautiful cruise on the mighty Zambezi River to watch the sunset
One of our favorite excursions is on the antique boat the "Ra Ikani". it's a small boat with leather chairs and hors d'oeuvre tables right out of the 1940s. This is how tourists from early generations experience the beautiful sunsets over Zambia.
Our last day of our trip we take a beautiful cruise on the mighty Zambezi River to watch the sunset
Of course we see loads of hippos in the river as well as elephants along the bank
Of course we see loads of hippos in the river as well as elephants along the bank
Of course we see loads of hippos in the river as well as elephants along the bank
Cruising with our friends down the Zambezi
Cruising with our friends down the Zambezi
Cruising with our friends down the Zambezi
I'm not sure what it is about African sunsets, but each one seems more beautiful than the next.
I'm not sure what it is about African sunsets, but each one seems more beautiful than the next.
I'm not sure what it is about African sunsets, but each one seems more beautiful than the next.
Our last night in Victoria Falls, a private dinner of African delicacies with dancers
Our last night in Victoria Falls, a private dinner of African delicacies with dancers
Our last night in Victoria Falls, a private dinner of African delicacies with dancers
This African group is incredible, wonderful singers and dancers
This African group is incredible, wonderful singers and dancers
In Africa it's expected that you get up and dance and sing with the entertainment at least some time during the performance.
This African group is incredible, wonderful singers and dancers
We love these African tunes
We love these African tunes
We love these African tunes
Our group saying goodbye to
Our group saying goodbye to" big boy" our old friend and guide at Victoria Falls
Our group saying goodbye to" big boy" our old friend and guide at Victoria Falls
After flying back to Johannesburg we have one  last dinner with our friends
After flying back to Johannesburg we have one last dinner with our friends
It's a sad night because our adventure is over, but over the past several weeks we have become good friends and shared many memories. These folks have become our friends for life.
After flying back to Johannesburg we have one last dinner with our friends
Early the next day we fly back up to Victoria Falls to do Arts For Animals work
Early the next day we fly back up to Victoria Falls to do Arts For Animals work
After saying goodbye to our friends, we fly from Johannesburg back up to Victoria Falls to continue teaching at the wildlife Center and visit schools near Hwange national Park- the largest national Park in Zimbabwe.
Early the next day we fly back up to Victoria Falls to do Arts For Animals work
The veranda of the wildlife Center has really come in handy
The veranda of the wildlife Center has really come in handy
With temperatures approaching 114°, it was relatively cool and breezy to be teaching underneath the veranda.
The veranda of the wildlife Center has really come in handy
There are few things more rewarding than seeing these kids learning about art for the first time
There are few things more rewarding than seeing these kids learning about art for the first time
There are few things more rewarding than seeing these kids learning about art for the first time
This is
This is "Pride" and "Blessing" , the two students who won our scholarships this year
Both these children are natural artists and" Pride" wants to use his artistic talents to become a research biologist
This is "Pride" and "Blessing" , the two students who won our scholarships this year
This is our friend Ishmael, an artist in Victoria Falls who creates sculptures
This is our friend Ishmael, an artist in Victoria Falls who creates sculptures
This is the ultimate recycling. Ishmael makes his artworks out of old soda cans and wires stripped out of old electrical runs. From airplanes to motorcycles his pieces are amazing.
This is our friend Ishmael, an artist in Victoria Falls who creates sculptures
Outdoor furniture made simply from parts and pieces of  tractors, automobiles and buses
Outdoor furniture made simply from parts and pieces of tractors, automobiles and buses
Outdoor furniture made simply from parts and pieces of tractors, automobiles and buses
On our way to the schools we saw tons of wildlife
On our way to the schools we saw tons of wildlife
We had to pass through Hwange national Park to get to the schools. These schools border the park so the village has lots of interaction, good and bad, with the elephants and other wildlife in the park
On our way to the schools we saw tons of wildlife
Hwange's one of the most beautiful parks in southern Africa
Hwange's one of the most beautiful parks in southern Africa
But animal poaching, snares and traps are big problem. lions sometimes eat their cattle and elephants often trample and eat their crops, so it's important that these children learn that there is a value to their wildlife.
Hwange's one of the most beautiful parks in southern Africa
Sable are some of the most beautiful antelope around
Sable are some of the most beautiful antelope around
Sable are some of the most beautiful antelope around
Local kids need to see their wildlife, not as pests, but as an important link to their future
Local kids need to see their wildlife, not as pests, but as an important link to their future
Local kids need to see their wildlife, not as pests, but as an important link to their future
Because of poaching, rhinos are now rarely seen in this area
Because of poaching, rhinos are now rarely seen in this area
Because of poaching, rhinos are now rarely seen in this area
A Lily breasted roller, one of our favorite birds
A Lily breasted roller, one of our favorite birds
A Lily breasted roller, one of our favorite birds
These villages a very primitive with no electricity and water that must be pumped by hand
These villages a very primitive with no electricity and water that must be pumped by hand
These villages are remote and the people make their living from crops or from cattle. It's a very difficult living especially with global warming causing extreme drought.
These villages a very primitive with no electricity and water that must be pumped by hand
Children playing in the road- the African version of a remote controlled car
Children playing in the road- the African version of a remote controlled car
Look closely at this toy. It is a small car fashioned out of old wire, with wheels made out of electrical tape. But it even has a steering wheel that the kid can use to drive it around
Children playing in the road- the African version of a remote controlled car
This is the headmaster at one of the schools we work with- their mascot is the painted dog
This is the headmaster at one of the schools we work with- their mascot is the painted dog
This is the headmaster at one of the schools we work with- their mascot is the painted dog
This trip he worked with members of the local
This trip he worked with members of the local "ECO RANGERS" club
These children come in after school to learn more about wildlife and the environment. Through "children in the wilderness" they learn about their environment and have opportunities to gain scholarships and attend summer camps focused on wildlife.
This trip he worked with members of the local "ECO RANGERS" club
We helped the kids draw paintings of wildlife on their classroom walls
We helped the kids draw paintings of wildlife on their classroom walls
We helped the kids draw paintings of wildlife on their classroom walls
Amazing what you can do with a little talent and a magic marker
Amazing what you can do with a little talent and a magic marker
One of the lessons we teach these children is how much you can do as just one person who wants to make a difference on the planet.
Amazing what you can do with a little talent and a magic marker
This is the park ranger who guards the entrance to the park
This is the park ranger who guards the entrance to the park
He is quite proud of his animal protector wristband and was happy to show us
This is the park ranger who guards the entrance to the park
This is the leg bone of a lion-
This is the leg bone of a lion-
This lion skeleton part was found in the park with the wire snare still around its victim months after it died a horrible death
This is the leg bone of a lion-
Our eco-Rangers  at Ziga  school
Our eco-Rangers at Ziga school
These kids are the future artists, biologists, anti poaching police and conservationists of Africa
Our eco-Rangers at Ziga school
This is a mural I did at Nygamo school
This is a mural I did at Nygamo school
The kids will color it in later and have a reminder of their local wildlife. This village is very close to where Cecil the lion was killed
This is a mural I did at Nygamo school
Villagers here must live side-by-side with elephants and predators
Villagers here must live side-by-side with elephants and predators
These children are on the front lines were man is intruding into habitats of wildlife
Villagers here must live side-by-side with elephants and predators
This is me guiding the guides through the Bush
This is me guiding the guides through the Bush
This was a very impressive photo until Jim pointed out that I was looking through the wrong end of the binoculars!
This is me guiding the guides through the Bush
While on our way home we managed to sketch a few elephants
While on our way home we managed to sketch a few elephants
While on our way home we managed to sketch a few elephants
Inspiration is everywhere in Africa for me
Inspiration is everywhere in Africa for me
Inspiration is everywhere in Africa for me
This piece grew out of one of my sketches
This piece grew out of one of my sketches
This piece grew out of one of my sketches
Cheetahs are very endangered
Cheetahs are very endangered
Once cheetahs roamed the earth and were quite common in North America. During the last Ice Age only the African cheetahs survived. It's that limited gene pool that makes them so vulnerable to extinction.
Cheetahs are very endangered
The people in this area are so genuine and happy even though ,by our standards, they have nothing
The people in this area are so genuine and happy even though ,by our standards, they have nothing
The people in this area are so genuine and happy even though ,by our standards, they have nothing
These kids have all  know of Cecil the lion.
These kids have all know of Cecil the lion.
"Old soul" is a good example for these children of how artwork can bring attention to conservation issues and encourage people to appreciate the majesty of their wildlife.
These kids have all know of Cecil the lion.
Near our camp we spotted a tree full of vultures
Near our camp we spotted a tree full of vultures
One way of finding active lions is to look for vultures waiting for the predator to leave the remains of a kill
Near our camp we spotted a tree full of vultures
Sure enough there was a lion feeding on a wildebeest nearby
Sure enough there was a lion feeding on a wildebeest nearby
In Africa, he can't just go for a walk without coming dinner for someone
Sure enough there was a lion feeding on a wildebeest nearby
We gave these schools their first computers
We gave these schools their first computers
But since their electricity is now out they can't run them. Electricity in the bush is quite a luxury. From giraffes electrocuting themselves to elephants knocking down the poles, power is often out
We gave these schools their first computers
After visiting  hour to schools we went back to the painted dog conservation Center
After visiting hour to schools we went back to the painted dog conservation Center
They have a wonderful "bush camp" here for kids. Sixth graders from all over the country spend four days at the camp learning about wildlife, getting to see wildlife in the park live, and talking about wildlife conservation where they live.
After visiting hour to schools we went back to the painted dog conservation Center
Working with the management of the Bush camp, our art programs have been integrated into their curriculum
Working with the management of the Bush camp, our art programs have been integrated into their curriculum
We have developed teacher lesson plans, activity posters, and furnish drawing kits for the kids at their camp. these teaching elements help drive home the conservation messages we want the kids to learn
Working with the management of the Bush camp, our art programs have been integrated into their curriculum
Making a pledge to  become an
Making a pledge to become an" Animal Protector"
Our goal is to have thousands of African children understanding the importance of their wildlife to their heritage and their future and pledging to protect their wildlife
Making a pledge to become an" Animal Protector"
Another one of our art classes at the Bush camp
Another one of our art classes at the Bush camp
Dominic Is coming to Washington in two months to accept an award from the world wildlife fund for being one the world's outstanding conservation teachers
Another one of our art classes at the Bush camp
One of our classes of kids  displaying their posters
One of our classes of kids displaying their posters
Hopefully they will bring these's home, put them up and spread the message of wildlife conservation to their friends and family
One of our classes of kids displaying their posters
We have become friends with the staff at the painted dog conservation Center
We have become friends with the staff at the painted dog conservation Center
They held a " Braii" (barbecue ) for us and luckily I brought some Cajun spices
We have become friends with the staff at the painted dog conservation Center
Jumping for joy
Jumping for joy
This Bush camp really gets the kids fired up about conservation and wildlife
Jumping for joy
We also visited a nearby school and worked with their new art club
We also visited a nearby school and worked with their new art club
The school is in the middle of nowhere, yet has over 600 kids attending. The kids are raking bricks to landscape their yard and have planted over an acre of vegetables which they sell to local businesses
We also visited a nearby school and worked with their new art club
After breaking up the bricks, the kids haul them over and spread them as landscaping in their schoolyard
After breaking up the bricks, the kids haul them over and spread them as landscaping in their schoolyard
After breaking up the bricks, the kids haul them over and spread them as landscaping in their schoolyard
 These girls are breaking rocks to cover their schoolyard
These girls are breaking rocks to cover their schoolyard
The boys and girls here break up old bricks and spread them in the schoolyard as landscaping
These girls are breaking rocks to cover their schoolyard
The boys break rocks to
The boys break rocks to
Here I asked them to act like lions to get them to laugh
The boys break rocks to
After the rocks are broken, the girls and boys haul them over to be spread
After the rocks are broken, the girls and boys haul them over to be spread
The entire school is the result of tons of hard work
After the rocks are broken, the girls and boys haul them over to be spread
These kids are not afraid to work and even the smallest ones lend a hand
These kids are not afraid to work and even the smallest ones lend a hand
These kids are not afraid to work and even the smallest ones lend a hand
When the kids aren't breaking rocks they are growing spinach, kale and other vegetables for sale
When the kids aren't breaking rocks they are growing spinach, kale and other vegetables for sale
These African children are slowly building their school with their own sweat and blood and the money they make raising vegetables for sale. Very imressive since they started with nothing but a piece of land with a sign on it.
When the kids aren't breaking rocks they are growing spinach, kale and other vegetables for sale
Their only source of water Is by hand pumping it and carrying it home in buckets
Their only source of water Is by hand pumping it and carrying it home in buckets
Their only source of water Is by hand pumping it and carrying it home in buckets
It's hard not wanting to help these smiling ,energetic kids
It's hard not wanting to help these smiling ,energetic kids
It's hard not wanting to help these smiling ,energetic kids
Living in mud and thatch huts, these folks  have little exposure to art
Living in mud and thatch huts, these folks have little exposure to art
Living in mud and thatch huts, these folks have little exposure to art
We can't overemphasize sacrifice and dedication of the teachers we work with
We can't overemphasize sacrifice and dedication of the teachers we work with
Although we seem to hear much about the bad people and elements of Africa, every day there were many folks who are working hard, sacrificing much and making little in the way of pay to make Africa a better place
We can't overemphasize sacrifice and dedication of the teachers we work with
 Our last group of kids Mbele school!
Our last group of kids Mbele school!
Our last group of kids Mbele school!
Years ago ,when I first painted Old Soul, I would have never guessed that part it would play in my life
Years ago ,when I first painted Old Soul, I would have never guessed that part it would play in my life
Today we're working with kids are growing up and will live near where Cecil the lion was killed. this piece of art is teaching children how much art can accomplish and how important their wildlife is. It brings to life a purpose for art in their lives.
Years ago ,when I first painted Old Soul, I would have never guessed that part it would play in my life
These lions represent beauty to us-but to village kids they represent extreme danger
These lions represent beauty to us-but to village kids they represent extreme danger
Teaching children to preserve and protect wildlife is not easy but it's extremely important
These lions represent beauty to us-but to village kids they represent extreme danger
We leave Africa looking forward to sunsets at home again
We leave Africa looking forward to sunsets at home again
We leave Africa looking forward to sunsets at home again