Hainan gibbons are the most endangered primate species in the world. Fortunately, there are people who care enough to do something about the welfare of these “lesser apes.”
One generous spirit who has dedicated her time and expertise to the conservation of gibbons is going to be recognized with a gift soon – a framed Hainan gibbon painting created by Artifact. This shows the very beginning of the composition. More updates soon!
The Hainan gibbon painting was put on hold over the holidays so that the honoree and her sisters would all get similar holiday presents. The painting was reserved for an April birthday.
I finished the line-work on the gibbons in February, using permanent sepia-toned inks to emulate the look of an antique scientific rendering. The old paper is really new canvas, treated to appear as if it were an old parchment with damage from exposure to time and the elements.
The rattan palms in the background were tinted with washes of acrylic paints. The tapuang tree and the dischidia vine received the same treatment, with layers of fine details applied to the distinguishing features. I spent the most time making sure the gibbons were as accurate as possible, with the scant historical records available. I went over the text with a fine Sharpie pen so it would be legible over the Hainan Island sea.
The gift-givers picked up the painting and will have it matted and framed in time for the beneficiary’s April birthday.
