Borneo and Sumatra are home to an amazing range of species. They are the only places on Earth where tigers, rhinos, orangutans, and elephants live together.
Sounds pretty cool, right? Well, that’s until you find out that these species are all endangered.
Spreading awareness is crucial in the mission to save these incredible creatures. It would be hard to overestimate the power of visual imagery in the protection of wildlife. Pictures can influence and inspire change. They speak a language hugely more accessible, far more universal than the written word. The same goes for music.
That’s exactly why the work of Suffolk-based illustrator, Kieran Page, is so interesting. His five-part series encompassing powerful portraits of the Sumatran Rhino, Orangutan, Hornbill, Proboscis Monkey and Sumatran Tiger speak for themselves, but can be viewed with the added dimension of sound.
Each portrait has been illustrated with consideration. The angles of the scribbles; the curves of the leaves; and the bold bright highlights which frame each animal, all work in unison to bring together the pieces.
They are also united through sadness that sits in contrast with the vibrant colours. Oranges, pinks, blues and greens pay a bright homage to animals, but at the same time, the sorrow in their eyes portrays threat.
And that message of threat is taken to another level through poignant poems and songs that have been composed exclusively for each illustration by London-based artist, Slow King.
Lyrics such as “The fruits aren’t quite as plentiful, these conditions aren’t natural…”, and “It’s just a tree son? Well to me it’s a home, my supermarket, and community hall…” give depth and context. They expose dangers such as deforestation, hunting, and unsustainable agriculture – all affecting different animal species to a lesser or greater extent.
It’s definitely worth listening to the songs when you first take in the pieces to get the full experience and story of the art. Printed lyrics of Slow King’s songs and a link to listen to them will be sent to you when you purchase the limited-edition prints from our online shop:
These unique illustrations and poems will make a talking-point in your home. They are not recessive. They will not ‘blend in’. They make a statement that time is running out to save some of the wondrous species of life on earth. In that way, they are haunting. And they are also very attractive, very bold,
very contemporary.
Follow the artists on Instagram:
@kpageillustration
@iamslowking