Paula's Art & Photographic Safari
Artists and photographers for Conservation
Perth artist Paula Wiegmink recently returned from Africa where she lead a group of artist/ photographers on an African Art Safari.
This tour was organised in conjunction with ‘The Save African Rhino Foundation’ in Perth, to help raise funds towards the conservation of these magnificent animals which are now in danger of becoming extinct.
The group first visited the Musango Lodge on the shores of Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe, where the incredibly beautiful surroundings offered an abundance of wild life, birds and picturesque scenery. Each day was an adventure of sights and sounds. The group also visited a local Tonga fishing village and were given a tour by the village chairman. The people of this village lead a subsistent lifestyle yet seem so happy. The children delighted at having their photos taken each vying for a position in front of the camera.
The next stop was the Victoria Falls Safari lodge where the group were able to view the animals coming and going at the lodges very own waterhole.
The mighty Victoria Falls cascaded into the gorge below creating a misty froth and some of the artists took this opportunity to rest on a fallen log and make a quick sketch.
Then the group set of for the Hwange National Park and were lucky to make a quick stop at the Painted Dog Conservancy, where great efforts are being made to save these animals which are now also in danger of becoming extinct.
Staying at the luxury tented Safari camp called The Hide proved a great success and even the sounds of a roaring lion could be heard in the early hours of the morning!
The last stop was the Amalinda lodge in the region of the Mtopos National Park. Nestled up against the granite rock, the thatched roof building blended perfectly into the surroundings. The decor unique and very ethnic reminded Paul of the Fred Flintsones abode! One of the highlights of the Safari was a guided walk accompanied by two armed guards to see the white rhino. Only when you get up close to these animals do you realise their bulk and power. It was a truly stirring experience for all.
This was a trip of a lifetime and the tour raised $6,000 donated to the ‘Save African Rhino Foundation,’ which over the last 20 years has made an incredible effort towards conservation.
Due to the success of this tour, Paula has once again offered to donate her time in the effort to help make a difference. Paula says, “I don’t want to get to the end of my life and know that I didn’t try to make a difference”, “I hope that my grandchildren and the generations to come will have the privilege of seeing these animals safe and roaming free in their natural habitat.”
For further information about the 2014 tour please contact Paula – email: [email protected]
web: paulawiegmink.com.au
facebook: Paula Wiegmink - Artist
blog: artbypaula.wordpress.com
prguitarman
areudirty
theartofmadeline
germansingergirl
jacobvanloon
discoholicmusic