"In Remembrance of Dead Lions"

The Masai are famous the world over for their exotic dress, beaded adornment and for their traditional way of life. There is, however, a negative side to this. Traditionally pastoralists, the Masai own huge numbers of domestic amimals. The human/wildlife conflict has become an increasing problem in Kenya as both fight for precious grazing. Recently, on the outskirts of Nairobi, six lions were killed by Masai in retaliation for the killing, by the lions, of a few of their animals. There are estimated to be only 2,000 lions left in Kenya and they are in danger of becoming extinct in the near future.

I wanted to convey my sadness over this senseless slaughter of these majestic animals. Instead of using bright Masai beads I painted the traditional necklaces. The painted back ground represents the blood shed. Spears were the weapons used to kill the lions. The photograph of one of the dead lions was sourced from a local newspaper and printed onto fabric. The Tartan fabric is traditionally used by the Masai.