Testing Ground

ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Two young elephants meet in a moment that hovers between play, learning, and belonging. Painted from a reference the artist captured on the banks of the Chobe River, layers of atmosphere and abstraction invite the viewer into a space of relationship rather than separation. At a time when wild places face increasing pressure, the work serves as a reminder that our futures remain inseparable from the lives and landscapes with which we share the world.

Medium: Oil on linen
Category: Animal Behaviour

ABOUT THE ARTIST
Joni-Leigh Doran is a fine artist living in the Western Cape of South Africa. Her practice explores the porous boundary between the human and non-human world; the places where presence, memory, and relationship intersect. Working primarily in oil, she’s drawn to moments where this divide begins to soften, allowing animals, landscapes, and human experience to exist in quiet conversation rather than hierarchy.

ABOUT WILDLIFE ARTIST OF THE YEAR
This artwork was selected for exhibition in Wildlife Artist of the Year, David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s internationally acclaimed competition celebrating the very best in wildlife art while raising vital funds for conservation.

YOUR PURCHASE MAKES A DIFFERENCE
50% of the proceeds from this sale will support David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) and our conservation partners across Africa and Asia. Together, we fight wildlife crime and protect endangered species, from frontline action to global policy.

SHIPPING INFORMATION
Please note that shipping costs are not included in the purchase price for this artwork, and there may be additional customs charges for deliveries outside the UK.  Upon purchase, a member of the DSWF team will be in touch to discuss collection or delivery options.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
Nominate your favourite Wildlife Artist of the Year artwork for the 2026 People’s Choice Award. Every vote helps celebrate the talent, creativity and passion of the artists who make this competition so special. Click on the Vote button above. One vote per person only.