How To Draw A Endangered Animal

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Artist Creates Large Drawings of the World's Endangered Animals

Artist Russ Ronat aims to create a large drawing of every animal on the endangered species list. With the recent news of the sad death of the last male white rhinoceros, we are reminded of the pressing need to protect wild animal habitats.

This art project titled "Project Holocene" is a series of large, expressive drawings of endangered and vulnerable animals, and an international photography collaboration. The photographs in the project show the drawings projected on a variety of different architecture in different locations around the world.

The title Project Holocene refers to the current geologic time period of man and the current, ongoing extinction of species. This project brings attention to the threats and conservation steps needed. There are many factors influencing animal survival, these include habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade.

"It is my goal to create these animals on paper or canvas. Drawing allows me to express the energy and wonder of each of these animals," says artist Russ Ronat. "It is my hope that my art brings awareness to each of the animals that I draw."

The project was first exhibited a few months ago at the Taipei Collectible Botanical Garden in Asia, and will be on display in various zoos and museums this year in the US.

"We are excited to share Russ Ronat's art with the Birmingham community, as another way the Birmingham Zoo supports conservation of species both locally and abroad," said Chris Pfefferkorn, Birmingham Zoo Senior Vice President. "Conservation is our mission and the Zoo participates in Species Survival Plans through the AZA, a PiCA (Passion into Conservation Action) grant program that funds conservation projects for employees, and educational opportunities for Zoo guests to learn how they can take direct action in conservation."

Project Holocene will run at the Birmingham Zoo from May 1-31 during regular Zoo hours. Russ Ronat will be on site at the Birmingham Zoo May 1-5 to sign prints being sold in the Zoo's gift shop. A portion of the proceeds from the prints sold will go directly to the Birmingham Zoo's conservation initiatives.