Painted Wolf

The history of the African wild dog (lycaon pictus) bears testimony to the complex intertextuality of colonial discourse and current debates on conservation and wilderness.The contestation of spaces and the challenge of re-wilding projects are of particular significance to the African wild dog and its continued existence. Wild dog packs require large spaces in which to roam They are also seen as a stereotypical threat to farming communities and their livestock.

In this exhibition I represent the African wild dog as an animal threatened by diminishing geographical territory. Increasing human control and domination are represented in my work by structures derived from the conventions of cartography as well as, in some cases, by the presence of the human being. Both of these indexically signify either issues of stewardship or dominion of the animal.

The paintings celebrate the beauty of the animal – an aspect often misrepresented in the past since the African wild dog is regarded as a problem animal, officially until recently categorised as vermin. Its powerful body, unique patterning and arresting head demands admiration and stimulates inspiration.