Paignton Zoo Gorilla N'Dowe Paints Gorilla Sculpture

Title: Paignton zoo gorilla N’Dowe paints gorilla sculpture

Author: Devon

Publication: BBC News

Date: 26th March 2013

Link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-21939221

It is widely known that the human closest relative comes from the “Monkey Family”. Scientists are always conducting experiments that would show the relation between this species and humans. This article speaks about an interesting public art project that involved gorillas participating in creating art work. The project was year long and it marked the 90^th anniversary of the Devon zoo. It was supposed to highlight the plight of gorillas in the wild. 

The gorilla in the image that is shown painting the sculpture is named N’Dowe, and his work will be used for educational purposes before it is auctioned off. His keeper said he was motivated by the promise of grapes, and that he chose to use his fingers and lips rather than brushed to apply the paint.

It is predicted that there will be around 30-40 life-size silver back gorillas with an addition of several smaller ones (like the one in the picture with N’Dowe) and they will be displayed in the summer. The locations of the sculptures will be given on a map that will lead to the trail. It is predicted to be a quite fun and entertaining activity. In autumn, the sculptures will be auctioned off and the money raised will be donated to the Cross River Gorilla Project, which is currently the most endangered ape in Africa with only 300 individuals left.

It is quite fascinating to see animals perform human like activities. It makes me wonder what other things apes, and other animals are capable of doing and if these actions stimuli their brains into performing better and thinking more actively in their daily lives.