Drought, Dust and Danger
1999
oil, 30" x 84"

Close to the ranch where I live lies Lake Nakuru National Park. Four years ago the area was hit by a severe drought—the worst for at least fifty years. The park’s limited waterholes dwindled and the large population of Cape buffaloes trudged ever further to drink. Predators such as lions will exploit such a situation and wait near water to pounce on weak animals within the herd. The buffalo become increasingly alert, wary and dangerous as they approach to drink. I tried to portray this exquisite tension as the herd came out of the dry bush, their hooves raising dust backlit by the early sun.