On the morning of the 4th June 2013 the Londolozi journey of giraffes were looking more spectacular than ever! The golden lowveld winter sun was creating the most breathtaking shapes and shadows through the legs of the giraffes like I had never seen before! It was on that morning that we recieved the news that Simon Bannister, Londolozi’s artist in residence, was the new Wildlife Artist of the Year!
The winter sun shining through the legs of the Londolozi Journey
Since that day Simon has been mentioned on websites such as Heben Bridge Times, My Cape Town and Art Link to mention a few! Simon had the following to say after we asked him how he was feeling a few days later…
“I’m obviously so pleased with the outcome, tt is a great affirmation of my work and I really think that this will galvanize my journey even more. My thanks go to those that believe in me and those that understand that art has an important role to play in environmental awareness. I will be using this award to create more outstanding works so keep watching this space!”
The giraffes truly standing above the rest at the Mall Gallery in London.
The David Shepard Wildlife trust has a set of values that lie very much in the heart of what Londolozi stands for and lives by daily. With this in mind, Simon has chosen to donate a portion of his prize money to the Good Work Foundation. Simons realtionship to GWF goes further than that of Londolozi, one of Simons greatest artworks is in the centre of the Hazyview digital learning centre…the Terrabytus Digitata, the Tree of Digital knowledge. Simon helped to shape the vision of the Tree of Digital knowledge and then built this icon from the roots up.
Simon truly portraying his artwork through a ‘frame’
Simon, your Londolozi family congratulate you and look forward to experiencing what has to come! Have a safe Journey home!
Amazing work Simon!
We’re all very proud!
Jamo
Fantastic news – the giraffes look incredible towering over the visitors – so impressive, many many congratulations Simon.
What an amazing young man! I hope to hear a lot more from you in the years to come.
Thank you Londolozi for sharing this.
Congratulations Simon. We were privileged to see your ‘Christmas’ giraffes in situ in December. May you go from strength to strength.
Karin and Ian MacLaty
Congratulations, well deserved!
Congrats Simon!!!