WILD WEDNESDAY: A Fabulously Flanged Friend for Fleeting February

Happiest of Wild Wednesdays to All!

With January falling by the way side, February has been able to swing into full-view! And with a lovely leap-year party looming, let's look lively as we march towards March. Hinting at what may hang on the horizon, I present fellow artist and a most perceptive pal...

Towering Yet Talented Towan, Orange Ape of Asia, Pongo pygmaeus. 

"A Longing Drawing Can't Cure: Orangutangled Dreams of Distant Canopies." Pongo pygmaeus. Marker. 2012.

Male orangutans are giants of the jungle, causing quakes that rip and ripple through the leafy tranquility of the treetops. In the wake of their sway, these massive mammals leave their air of nobility alongside a massacre of masticated fruits and nuts.

But despite the intimidating gargantuan figure, these simians can be quite sensitive. Solitary and wide-ranging habits leave these juggernauts ample time to ponder the mysteries of the universe, and perhaps even comment on the primate condition as they brachiate among branches. Towan (hailing from the jungle of Seattle) taps into his expressive side through his love of painting, making inner emotion known to the wider circle of life through bright, non-toxic colors. Moody and introverted, this dreadlocked dreamer has the soul of an artist that is often wrapped in a burlap blanket, gazing out at the world going by.

TERRIFYING TUESDAY: The Ever-Enthralling Komodo Dragon

Happy (Belated) Mongrel Monday! Or Tyrannical Tuesday. And a Happy New Year to boot.

Welcome one and all to the year of 2012 C.E., also known by the Chinese Zodiac as the Year of the Dragon. It just so happens that I have chosen to honor this auspicious animal with a stately portrait. Help start the New Year off right. And thus I present to you...

King of Komodo, The Daunting Dragon, Varanus komodoensis.

"Dare to Drool: The Komodo Dragon Spits His Tainted Tale." Varanus komodoensis. 2011. Marker.

Native to the island of Komodo (and a few others in the area), this cold-blooded champion of the ages spends his days leisurely stalking and ambushing prey.  With poisoned saliva and a fiery tongue, this dragon certainly breathes fire for any it sinks its teeth into.  With an island all to himself, this massive meat-eater has his pick of plentiful prey - perhaps that is why his mouth is always watering.  Tough-skinned and strong of heart, this ancient beast fears none, and is respected by all.  Ferocious in fighting and fast to feast, it is no wonder myths and legends surround such a revered reptile.

Komodo Dragon Fun Fact: young dragonlets scamper into trees soon after hatching, and live up in the canopy eating bugs and eggs until they get a little bigger. This way, they are not eaten by their adult counterparts (who can't climb) - and return to terra firma once they can stand their ground. 

(This nibble of knowledge brought to you by the San Diego Zoo!)