Amanda, an orangutan with a flair for the abstract, has become an unlikely art sensation, fetching hundreds of dollars for her unique creations. Her unorthodox approach and sporadic painting sessions have not hindered her ability to captivate an audience. This 100-pound primate's talent has not only enriched her life but also contributed significantly to the Como Zoo's enrichment program. Let's delve into the world of animal artistry, where creatures like Amanda are redefining creativity and contributing to conservation efforts.
Amanda resides at the Como Zoo in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she has transformed her living space into a studio of sorts. Amidst the banana peels and playthings, she ascends a cargo net to warmly welcome her human admirers. Her keeper, Mike Thell, introduced her to painting as part of the zoo's enrichment program, which aims to stimulate the animals mentally and physically. This program is part of a broader initiative across zoos nationwide, where animals engage in activities like problem-solving for treats or interacting with their environment in novel ways, all to promote their psychological well-being.
Amanda's journey into the art world began with simple demonstrations by her human caretakers. With a few lessons, she grasped the concept of using a brush and paint, and it wasn't long before she developed her own style. Her preferred medium includes nontoxic poster paint and thick paper, and she's particularly fond of the color blue. After each deliberate brushstroke, Amanda cleans her brush in a rather unconventional manner—by licking it. Her signature? A final touch with her tongue on the canvas.
According to a study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science, engaging animals in such creative activities can lead to positive behavioral changes and reduce signs of stress and anxiety.
Amanda's artwork made its public debut at the Como Zoo's Primate Exhibit building, where an auction featuring 22 of her framed originals attracted over 400 attendees and raised approximately $4,800 for the zoo. One of her pieces, titled "Like the Weather," sold for an impressive $360. While Amanda shares her habitat with other orangutans, she stands out as the sole artist with a passion for painting.
The success of animal art extends beyond Amanda. For instance, Ruby, an elephant at the Phoenix Zoo, had her paintings sold for substantial amounts, with one fetching nearly $3,000. The Marine Science Center in Clearwater, Florida, has also showcased dolphin art, with one piece selling for $175 back in 1992.
For those interested in nurturing the artistic talents of their own pets or animals in their care, it's essential to provide non-toxic materials and allow them to observe and learn through repetition. Rewards for their efforts should be healthy and appropriate, such as low-fat, low-sugar yogurt or fruit cubes.
Andrea Campbell, author of "Bringing Up Ziggy: What Raising a Helping Hands Monkey Taught Me About Love, Commitment, and Sacrifice," shares insights on encouraging artistic expression in animals. Visit her and Ziggy's website at www.andreacampbell.com for more information.
In conclusion, the artistic endeavors of animals like Amanda not only showcase their cognitive abilities but also play a vital role in their overall well-being and the conservation efforts of zoos. As we continue to discover the depths of animal intelligence, we may find that creativity is not solely a human trait but a universal expression of life itself.
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