Lifesize Gorilla Painting

The Ape Painting

Oil on Panel, 2018
Dimensions: 108 inches x 90 inches (274cm x 229cm)

This painting depicts Charles, the iconic silverback gorilla from the Toronto Zoo, surrounded by over 70 different ape-related toys from various generations of pop culture. The pattern is primarily influenced by Gothic stained glass windows. As a child, I would draw Charles constantly. I had always wanted to make a large-scale painting of Charles, but I didn't want it to be a menacing or intimidating depiction. I wanted to present a "gentle giant". Because of my desire for that pose, capturing an ideal reference photo was very difficult. I ended up taking multiple reference photos to create a composite sketch. This was the most challenging painting I have ever made.

SOLD

Lifesize Gorilla Painting

Studio Image

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail

Ape Toys

Detail