Inspiration Location: South Africa!
Now it may at first seem that I am merely posting some holiday snaps in this post. But that could not be further from the truth!
What lies below is a visual smattering of findings from my latest inspiration and photographic research trip. Destination: South Africa.
After 2 days, 3 flights, a diverted plane due to a dust storm over the UAE, an unscheduled overnight in Dubai, & a propellor plane landing in 70mph winds, we reached the first stop: Addo Elephant Park.
A delirious but happy La Shuks gets down to business. The busness of taking in one's surroundings from the moving vantage point of a swinging seat. Then a spot of sketching the nearby thatched mudhut roofs, while enjoying local delicacies... namely cheesy Nik Naks.
Then onto what I was really here for: a proper safari to take in the wilderness of the South African Eastern Cape in all it's glory, and take some photos. The colours! The landscapes! The wildlife! ...and observing the peaceful community life of elephant families. Is there anything cuter than the trunk of a baby elephant?? (If so, then please write and let me know)
Next stop: Nature's Valley. A couple of hours drive from the semi-arid surrounds of Addo, this magical eco treehouse-style hostel, is set within the luscious rainforest region, complete with hiking trails and even it's own 80 foot waterfall and rock pools on the property! Heaven.
A couple of hairy encounters with baboons, some less threatening primate observations, an invigoratingly icy dip in the rock pool, and countless hours daydreaming with intent… at sunsets, moons and other lofty sky spheres ...all helped to re-set the mind, and get those new ideas brewing and tingling......
I am currently back in the UK and in extreme-creative-production-mode, working on my next series of artworks, hugely inspired by my time being immersed in this beautiful country, & the landscapes of my South African adventure. Watch this space for more La Shuks Future Nature!
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I wholeheartedly recommend both of these amazing places to visit. Links to each:
Cryslin African Lodge Addo, and Wild Spirit Lodge Nature's Valley