The Making of “Khuseleka”: A Journey in Protection
As a wildlife artist, I am continually inspired by the stories that unfold in the wild—moments of vulnerability, strength, and connection. “Khuseleka” is one such story, brought to life through a commission that honors the enduring bond between a black rhino mother and her calf, and the guardians who work tirelessly to protect them.
The Story Behind the Painting
The word “Khuseleka” comes from isiZulu, meaning “to be safe, to be protected.” My client’s vision was to capture a quiet moment of trust—a mother and calf resting in safety, a tribute to both the resilience of the rhino and the people dedicated to their survival. Their words guided my approach:
“In this quiet moment, a black rhino mother and her calf rest in safety. Their stillness speaks of trust — in the land that holds them, and in the people who work tirelessly to protect their kind. Khuseleka honors both the strength of the rhino and the guardianship of those who ensure her species may not only survive, but thrive.”
Stage 1: The Sketch
Every painting begins with a vision and a sketch. Here, I mapped out the gentle posture of the mother and calf, focusing on their connection and the sense of calm that would anchor the composition. The sketch is where I establish the story’s foundation—gesture, proportion, and the emotional core.
Stage 2: Underpainting
The underpainting is where the forms take shape and the atmosphere begins to emerge. Working in earth tones, I blocked in the major values and refined the contours of the rhinos. This stage involves building structure and depth, ensuring that the final layers possess a sense of solidity and life.
Stage 3: The Final 20%
In the final 20% of the painting process, I focus on highlighting and deepening shadows to add life to the artwork. This stage involves layering brushstrokes to create depth and texture & to enhance the richness and contrast, and making colors more vibrant. This careful balance transforms the painting into a captivating scene, as I refine details to ensure each element harmonizes.
Stage 4: The Finished Piece
In the final painting, the black rhino and her calf rest together, bathed in soft, natural light. I paid special attention to the textures of their skin, the subtle interplay of shadow and highlight, and the tranquil background that suggests both sanctuary and the wild. My goal was to evoke a sense of peace, protection, and hope for the future of these magnificent animals.
Reflections
Creating “Khuseleka” was a deeply meaningful experience. It allowed me to honor not only the beauty and strength of the rhino, but also the vital work of conservationists. Through each stage—from sketch to completion—I was reminded of the power of art to tell stories that matter, and to inspire a greater appreciation for the wild places and creatures we must protect.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. If you’d like to see more behind-the-scenes progress or learn about upcoming works, I invite you to follow my studio updates or reach out with your own stories and inspirations.