"Gorilla" was inspired by Jimmy, the silver back gorilla at the Miami Zoo several years ago. His lineage still exists today with his son being the lead silver back on display. Sharing hours with Jimmy during my visits to the zoo allowed me to secure the images to produce this painting. I take great pride in producing works of art that are true representations of the wildlife that inhabit our world. My chosen subjects vary from the majestic animals of Africa to the delicate birds of Florida.

I range through nature with camera in hand, searching for my best angles with dramatic lighting. Armed with these reference shots, I create wildlife portraits aiming for as much authentic detail as possible.

Over the years I have learned to exploit whichever medium, (watercolor, oil or acrylic), best suites my composition. I mix the colors of nature on my palette and typically begin with the eyes of my subject. This gives me a sense of working with the animals while they peer at me from the canvas.

Do take a look at his website www.edtakacs.com