Wild Life Drawing Online: Lions (Live)

Join us online for a rip roaring live class with Kumba and Vigo- two lions who are as unusual as they are beautiful. These two brothers spent their early years as part of a travelling circus, confined to the back of a lorry when they weren’t being exploited as part of the show. They were castrated before they were one year old which affected their development meaning that they never grew manes, and grew to an abnormally large size. After a difficult start in life, thankfully these beautiful boys were rescued and brought to their forever home at Wildheart Animal Sanctuary on the Isle of Wight in 2019. They now receive expert care are a happy and relaxed duo, who love to play hide and seek in the bamboo together before stretching out for a long nap. 

While here in the U.K. the use of wild animals in circuses is banned, it is unfortunately still a big issue in other parts of the world, and one which we will unpack during this class. We will begin with an introduction from artist Jennie Webber who will demonstrate her process for drawing animals from life, to help you get your lion sketches jumping from the page. We will then hand over to Christine and the carers at the Sanctuary, who will introduce Kumba and Vigo and tell us their story. We'll have a great view of the lions via live camera as well as some lovely reference images for those close up details, should we need them. While we draw we will have a discussion about the use of animals in live entertainment and you will be invited to ask plenty of questions. While this is a hard hitting topic, we will ensure the class is really fun and light hearted too- after all, these two lions are happy and healthy now! 

The class is open to people of all artistic abilities- whether you’re a dab hand or an absolute beginner, with a bit of creative guidance we will have you sketching away in no time! The basic materials you need to take part are paper, a pencil, eraser and sharpener, but of course you are more than welcome to work in whatever materials you enjoy or have to hand. And just so you know, we will send out a recording of the session to all ticket holders after it takes place, so you can rewatch as many times as you like! 

50% of profits will be donated to Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, so by taking part you will be contributing to the care of Kumba and Vigo, and all the other beautiful rescued animals who live at the Sanctuary.