About the piece:
Commonly known as Hargila (bone swallower), the largest Asian stork is considered as a “dirty pest”, “bad omen” or “plague”. With this view, landowners generally cut down tall trees with bird nests or attack the birds to chase them away. The stork has experienced a decline in population with currently less than 2,000 individuals remaining. This scavenger has been given the IUCN status of Endangered and has also been identified as an EDGE species. The artwork is inspired by the women’s campaign started by Dr. Purnima Barman. An army of women, known as Hargila Baido, protect the stork like their own child. The bird is now considered a pride for the locals as they perform baby showers and hatching ceremonies to spread awareness and encourage other campaigns to the cause.

At least 50% of the proceeds from this sale will support the charitable work of David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) and our ground-based conservation partners across Africa and Asia.