Art in the Wild

I first came to Angama Mara last spring for the adventure and the wildlife. I returned a year later for the people. Of course, the wildlife and incredible landscapes drew me back, but the people are the threads that make up the fabric of the entire experience. After many hours spent with my Guides, Butlers, Photographers, Managers, and other staff members, it was natural that friendships evolved. Our conversations veered from the flora and fauna of the Maasai Mara and the Amboseli region to family and life in general.

I am a watercolour artist who paints for the joy of painting. I began painting late in life and immediately fell in love with the media. When I arrived at Angama Amboseli, I was delighted to discover the paintings of Sophie Walbeoffe prominently featured around the lodge and in the Guest Suites; the entry to the Photographic Studio also passes through a gallery of her beautiful work. I was equally delighted to learn that guests who show an interest in art are offered a bag containing a welcome note from Sophie and supplies to introduce the guest to watercolour. What followed was just meant to be.

I am seldom without my paints and paper and can be found sketching and painting in random locations. This garnered some interest and I was happy to share what I have learned. An evening spent sipping a gin and tonic in the Mnara at Angama Amboseli turned into watercolour lessons. For those who still need to go, the Mnara is a special raised viewing platform of peace and serenity with 360-degree views — an artist’s dream.

I had brought my paints with me with the intention of painting the evening sky. As I spread out my supplies I casually asked, 'Would you like to paint with me?' My Guide, Elvis, and Butler, Andrew, were enthusiastic students. Together we painted what we saw. With minimal instruction, their creativity took over resulting in their first artworks. Their smiles say it all. We had such a wonderful time that evening. These are memories we will all carry with us of our time together. 

A day later I found myself in the Photographic Studio clearing a space to paint with Evelyn, the shop’s retail manager, and Sammy, one of Angama’s resident photographers. While Bryan, a videographer for Angama, documented parts of our lesson, I set out supplies and talked a bit about using water and pigment. Evelyn and Sammy soon became engrossed in their work and discovered one of the great joys of art; it is difficult to think about anything else while painting. The process draws one in and soon the outside world evaporates. Painting is a meditative process. Hours can go by in what feels like minutes. It was wonderful for me to see them absorbed in the process. There is more to come in their art journey.

I look forward to returning someday to both Angama Mara and Angama Amboseli. There is no doubt I will return with my paints and paper and an eagerness to introduce others to painting in watercolour. In the meantime, I urge all who visit Angama Amboseli to pick up the paint and brushes and paint the beauty that you see in front of you.