The first time I sketched giraffes, I realized how strange they are, with protruding triangular chest bones and huge boney knees. When you see a giraffe close up, you see just weird their proportions are. And when you see a giraffe skull, you realize just how dangerous a giraffe fight can be – with 2 males using their heads as battering rams, trying to knock the opponent off their feet.

Giraffe acrylic on canvas 10×8″ by Alison Nicholls

So it is ironic that the giraffe is considered one of the most elegant of African animals. Until you see them gracefully arch their necks to browse from the top of a thorny bush; run in that slow-motion manner, covering astonishing amounts of ground in one stride; or just stand still with neck held in a beautiful curve. Then it is completely clear why the giraffe is considered so graceful.

As an artist, when I create a wash of simple, elegant color, I almost inevitably think of adding a giraffe to the scene. Which is how this painting came to be. I put it aside for a few days, wondering whether to add another giraffe to the piece. But I decided 1 simple, elegant giraffe was all that was required.

Until next time…
Alison

www.ArtInspiredbyAfrica.com