A family of elephants crowds into a river pool under a steep, grassy bank, trunks raised, heads tilted and backs glistening. They came down to drink and stayed to play, pushing and rolling against each other in the cool, dark water.
Elephants need water every day. An adult can drink well over a hundred litres, and bathing is just as important. Water and mud cool their huge bodies and protect their skin from sun and biting insects. For the younger animals it is also a game, and you can see it here: one lifts its trunk, another leans its whole weight on a sibling, and a small one is almost lost in the middle of the group.
The light was low and warm, falling on the bank above them while the water stayed in shadow. That contrast frames the herd in a dark band across the lower half of the picture, with the textured earth and dry grass rising above. It is a documentary moment, full of movement and family life.
At large size the detail rewards a close look. It suits a living room, family room or office, and it is a warm gift for anyone who loves elephants or has been on safari in Africa.
THE PRINT
Archival pigment print (giclée) on museum-grade fine art paper. Limited edition of 30. Hand-signed and numbered by John Wiseman and issued with a signed certificate of authenticity.
SIZE
Image size 102 x 68 cm (40 x 27 in). Other sizes are available. Please enquire.
DELIVERY AND FRAMING
Made to order in Sydney, Australia. Shipped unframed, rolled in a protective tube. Custom framing in natural timber, black or white can be added through Bluethumb.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
John Wiseman is an award-winning Australian wildlife and nature photographer with more than 25 years in the field, photographing across six continents. Winner, Science & Nature, International Loupe Awards. Represented by IRID Gallery, Melbourne and Sydney.