While I have many limited edition art prints, this is the only original work I own. When I visited the Nashville Zoo in 2007, three African elephant ladies lived there and created paintings that were sold in the zoo gift shop. I’d seen their artwork when I previously visited the zoo and always regretted not buying one of Hadari’s paintings at that time. Her art was instantly recognizable of the three. The other elephants painted in angular zig-zags, but Hadari’s strokes were rounded and softer. When I saw this painting, I knew it was meant to be mine. The combination of earthy browns and sky turquoises is a personal favorite. I can spend endless time getting lost in the simple colors and sweep of this painting.
I’ve known for a few years that Hadari had passed away at The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee early in 2017 at the age of 36. Though it made me sad, I loved reading online that her last two years were filled with other elephant friends and relative freedom. When I started this blog, I asked Hadari’s spirit whether she has a name for my painting. This is her reply:
“It doesn’t have a name in words. Instead it’s a rhythm, a vibration, a flow—you should feel it, not name it. Humans love to name and label everything. Just enjoy.”
– Karen