Art for Conservation
Jun 17, 10:39 AM

This past week I found myself in some unique company. At a long conference table in Frankfurt Germany I sat amongst politicians (African & European), primatologists, conservationists, eco-tourism entrepreneurs and zoo directors. And then there was me, an artist. We all had convened for the same purpose; to put into writing how to protect gorillas through eco-tourism. Our work would be part of a larger declaration on gorilla conservation. In the meeting we all debated, rather intensely at times on the proper grammar and wording for our portion of the declaration. There were several other groups in separate conference rooms debating the semantics of other gorilla related issues: Logging/mining, armed conflict, diseases, and hunting. Once completed every section was combined to form the Frankfurt Declaration on Gorilla Conservation.
Click here to see the declaration

Me comparing notes with Radar Nishuli of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The symposium was a collaboration of several groups and associations: the UNEP (United Nations environment programme) along with CMS (convention on Migratory Species), GRASP (Great Apes Survival Partnership), WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums). After several series of lectures the symposium climaxed with an impressive gala. There were many prominent politicians, business men and yes a Princess.

Princess Odette Maniema Krempin is an African fashion Designer and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. She was born to the royal family of Maniema Nilemba Boniface Mulopwe in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. She gave the most moving speech of the evening describing her childhood experiences with gorillas both joyous and heartbreaking. During the Gala I along with Andy Rousse a premier wildlife photographer and Daniel Taylor (who wasn’t present) donated several works of art to benefit gorilla conservation.

We often ask ourselves how can I help, how can I make a difference. I learned first hand in Germany that we all can make a difference. Whether we’re scientists out in the field, business men behind a desk or even a wildlife artist there is a lot we can do. This collaboration with my art and conservation is just the beginning. Gorillas need our help, there are several more events planed for the year of the Gorilla including an event in Los Angeles this fall. If anyone is interesting in supporting Gorillas by purchasing artwork or attending future events contact Veronika Lenraz: vlenarz@cms.int

Here are some links to media coverage of the event:
ZDFmedia
rtl-hessen
rtl-hessen

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