Heavy Drinkers
1997
oil, 47 3⁄4" x 119 3⁄4"

Tsavo is a vast wilderness in eastern Kenya, inhospitable to man but home to great herds of elephants, buffalo, and others. Water is scarce, but the Voi River still has occasional pools, surrounded by lush vegetation. Over three days, I once watched a continuous parade of wildlife trudge out of the stark bush to drink. Here, the elephants share a drink with 126 egrets, sacred ibis and Egyptian geese.