They’re incredible creatures, aren’t they? Some call them architects of the land. As a keystone species their migration, dung-leaving and mud play patterns influence waterways and re-greening of the land. Their emotional intelligence is something we would do well to learn from.

 

I recently heard a story about a herd of elephants that voluntarily traveled 2 days to visit the home of their once-caretaker in a refuge, immediately after his death. They returned on the same date each year, and no one led them or gave them directions. Elephants can sense rain on the land tens and hundreds of miles away through the pads of their feet.

 

Unfortunately, most are captive in Asia, and many have undergone abusive practices like crushing and the use of bull hooks to instill compliance. In Africa, many are endangered due to poaching.

 

Organizations like the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya and Elephant Nature Park in Thailand are doing incredible things to rescue orphaned elephants, rehab harmed elephants, and either release them back into the wild or give them a humane life in sanctuary.

 

In an effort to support the elephants, I’m donating 20% of gallery painting sale net proceeds to these organizations. I also intend to inspire action through celebrating the beauty of nature; instead of through negative reinforcement.

 

And a little goes a long way. $50-$100 can make a significant impact on co-adopting an orphaned elephant for a year. So far, we’ve adopted 5 elephants. My goal is 70 by the end of 2027.​ I think we’ll blow past this goal, what do you think?? As soon as these find homes, I’ll paint more! Let’s go!! 💛🐘💛

 

~Chelsea