The Idle Biro -
The Wild Ones

Step into the realm of 'The Striped Sovereign', a stunningly detailed portrayal of the majestic zebra. With commanding presence, it symbolizes power and authority in its savanna kingdom. Every stroke captures its regal aura and the resilience of the wild, all in striking black and white, immortalizing nature's beauty in monochrome. In the wild and on paper.

"Regal Gaze" is a portrait inspired by a photo taken from a helicopter in Kenya. It distinguishes itself in my collection as the sole piece not related to Longleat. During my time in Kenya, I had the privilege of spending time with the Sheldrick Trust team, renowned figures in the wildlife conservation field. As part of the Aerial Surveillance Unit, they operate fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, covering extensive distances on patrol every month. This particular shot was taken during one of their patrols in late 2023.

For my collection, I sought to portray a less conventional animal in a nuanced light. The rhino portrait is a captivating fraction of a larger photographed image taken on my vist to Longleat. The photo featuring three rhinos head to head. Unlike the others, this piece invites you to pause and ponder. It's not just admiration; it's a puzzle to piece together and a maze to navigate, offering endless discoveries with each glance.

In April 2011, Anne was rescued from a life of captivity in a circus and found sanctuary at Longleat, where she could finally embrace the peace and dignity she deserved. Her eyes, bearing witness to years of hardship and fleeting moments of joy, captivate with their intensity, leaving an enduring impression of resilience and strength. Anne transcends her identity as an elephant; she embodies a beacon of hope and freedom.

The cheetah's allure lies in its unique fur pattern, with each spot as distinct as a fingerprint. In this piece, I departed from my usual focus on capturing facial features, apprehensive that I might lose my knack for bringing faces to life. Instead, I discovered a new appreciation for the cheetah's design. No two spots were alike in depth, shape, or size, revealing the intricacies of nature's artistry.

My art appeals to a wide audience, offering both depth of thought and simple joy. While some pieces delve into complex emotions, others, like this adorable monkey portrait, are simply uplifting.

With their innocence, playfulness, and mischievous nature, baby monkeys create a heartwarming contrast to the impactful and intense monochrome pieces in my collection. As I curated this series, I aimed to evoke a range of emotions, and the addition of a baby monkey piece serves as an emotional interlude, providing a moment of tenderness amidst the depth of the others.