Ellie

The elephant has long been the symbol of the “Ivory” companies where I have worked for over 30 years. Our CEO, Clark Ivory and his wife, Chris have been called to serve as Mission Presidents in Romania beginning in July 2014, so in their honor, I wanted to paint my version of the majestic elephant.

My wife had the opportunity to spend some time in Africa this past spring, and came home with many fun photos of African animals. I have had fun painting many of them  … lion, leopard, wart hog, and gorilla so far. I finally worked up the courage to try to paint one of these unique creatures … the elephant!

It posed some interesting challenges not the least of which was how to make their skin look so rough and wrinkly! I had fun experimenting with several different techniques, and just making it up as I went along!

Last month, our group painting class wanted to use my painting as reference material and learn how to paint him as well! I think they really enjoyed the  experience.

This piece is currently being framed, by my friend Cindy Cima (who, by the way, does all of my framing  and who I highly recommend to you for your framing needs!). I will deliver it to the Ivory’s in the coming days! Hope they enjoy “Ellie”!