Art: British Artist Emily Lamb Raising Awareness on Wildlife Conservation
[Image credit: ‘They Will be Lost’ – Emily Lamb]
I recently read a report stating that the Western Black Rhino is now extinct in West Africa and that the last known Java Rhino is also believed to be extinct; shocking and so sad to think about. Despite unsettling headlines like this concerted conservation efforts in other areas has seen endangered species start to pick up in numbers, but for this to happen it takes factors like time, dedication, education, community and off course funds! Yes, there is more to Africa than safari; but how marvellous the variety of wildlife the continent is blessed with, and I can’t help but be thankful for having the privilege of seeing some of these magnificent animals up close in their natural habitat, an experience that others can only dream about. Going on a game drive is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience, and recalling my experiences is what connected me to the work of UK-based artist Emily Lamb.
I was introduced to Emily’s work through a colleague, who mentioned she was going to the private viewing of a young artist; the daughter of a family friend and showed me some images. The vivid colours and emotive content grabbed me instantly…a lot of love and passion has gone into each piece. Inspired by Africa and India, places Emily travels to regularly capturing everyday people and wildlife as references to create her paintings, her latest exhibition was entitled ‘African Spring/Indian Summer’, a celebration of the diverse life and nature that both regions have to offer, as well as helping to raise awareness of various wildlife conservation efforts. Emily Lamb is the granddaughter of renowned wildlife painter and wildlife campaigner David Shepherd, following him into a career as an artist, an obsession that began at an early age, and in a true family affair Emily has exhibited alongside her grandfather, and aunt Mandy. Emily regularly helps to raise funds for her grandfather’s charity; The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, by participating in charity exhibitions and auctions, and the funds raised go towards saving elephant, rhino and tigers; often the subjects her work.
[Image credit: top, Maasai Bronze; bottom, Selous’s Pride – Emily Lamb]
The figures portrayed depict young Maasai shepherds and warriors, dignified and regal in their colourful traditional dress and off course the wildlife in the beauty of their natural surroundings. Working in mixed media, images are often juxtaposed against traditional patterns and vivid backgrounds. This is a style of painting I like; the transparency of the colours, the way they flow into each other whilst still keeping their intensity, the resulting layering effect creates depth and motion, giving a sense of elegance and serenity like you are observing scenes unfolding before you from a distance.
…beautifully capturing the fleeting wonders of life and nature
Additional details:
For purchase enquires visit: www.emilylamb.co.uk
For select pieces from the exhibition at Tyron Galleries visit: www.tryon.co.uk
For further information about The David Shepherd Wildlife Trust visit: www.davidshepherd.org
