Sherry Sketching Wild Dogs In South Africa

From the first hint of color, to a heavy veiling of the roadsides, the bluebonnets are bursting to life around us.  The new Longhorn calves are kicking up their heels in delight, as if this royal carpet had been rolled out just for their tiny hooves.  The majestic Live Oaks have finally shaken their worn leaves loose in the March winds and frothed their branches with pale green. Their twisting black limbs etch abstract designs across the landscape.  Springtime in Texas is truly glorious.

The hectic pace of the January shows has finally slowed to a steady jog.  The framing and shipping of orders from Dallas Safari Club and Safari Club International have nearly been overwhelming for Chuck, but he has been gamely tackling the task.  Our reward comes when we finally receive the call that each piece has safely arrived at its destination.   The satisfaction is enormous when we hear the delight in the voice of the collector who has just uncrated their piece and placed it on the wall. 

The year began in such a rush that the long break before the Spring shows seemed to be relatively endless.  Whoosh!  It is already gone as we load up for the Indian and Southwest Art Show in Arlington, TX.  Most importantly, I have completed and printed my first piece of 2007.  It features the Wild Dogs of Africa (AKA Cape Hunting Dog or Painted Wolf).  Captivated by this highly endangered species, I am certain there will eventually be a series depicting their unique hunting and social behavior.  Following fast on the heels of “The Painted Phantoms of Africa” is a trio of Prairie Dogs enjoying a morning chat over wildflowers.  Nearly complete, I think I feel a Cape Buffalo charging through the clouds in my mind to be the next on my drawing table.

If you didn’t receive my Annual Collectors Newsletter, please click here to view it.  It will spotlight the new works of 2006.

NEW WORKS

“The Painted Phantoms of Africa”

Searching the preserves of South Africa in hopes of sighting this illusive creature was an adventure in itself.  Able to cover fifty miles in a single day and dedicated to the survival of the pack, especially the pups, every member of the pack is valued.  Not to be confused with hyenas, the Wild Dogs are a distinct species of their own.  One of Africa’s most efficient predators, their trademark coloration, white-tipped tails and ‘Mickey Mouse’ ears made them a perfect subject for my pens and inks.

The Painted Phantoms of Africa

Caught in a rare moment of relative quiet, this alpha male and female have paused to share the bond of affection and responsibility.  A high intelligence is clearly evident in their piercing eyes.  Endangered as a predator because of its hunting efficiency and the encroachment of settlements where diseases such as distemper and rabies are spread, I feel honored to be able to share this captivating creature with you.   It deserves a place of preservation and respect in the balance of predator and prey in Africa.

Just Completed:

"Telling the 'Hole' Story"

PRINTS ON LEATHER

We are excited to be offering some of my images printed on leather as a new option to my collectors.   Signed and numbered, these pieces can be used as throws, stitched into pillows or framed for a totally different look.  Look for them at my next shows.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sculpture in Zimbabwe

There are several embellishments this year to the usual schedule of shows.  One of them is another of those unexpected gifts with which I am blessed, and which often opens unforeseen doors.  I have been given the opportunity this summer to study sculpting in the Zimbabwe studio of silver sculptor Patrick Mavros.  Not only does this mean returning to Africa again, but the chance to express my creatures in 3-dimensions.  My fingers are itching already!