Cora Ruck

Born in Bulawayo Zimbabwe in 1973. I attended the Bulawayo Polytech intending to study Textile design. After attaining my first diploma I realised that this was not the outlet my creativity craved and needed. Having always had a natural love for wildlife and aggravated by how many people took this beautiful gift we have for granted I did my first animal just over 3 years ago. Being mostly a hunting country I despirately wanted and needed to show what I call the "human side" of our beautiful animals. I did not want to do just another pretty picture to hang on someones wall but rather a picture that tell the story of that animal, a place where the viewer can share its life from a distance and gain a touch of understanding. Being lucky enough to personally know a lot of the animals I draw has enriched my life and fulfilled me in ways I never thought possible. Each animal has such individuality and character that it is impossible not to fall deeper in love with them as I go.

I believe that a painting or a drawing should be more than just asthetically pleasing it should touch your life and pull at your soul. It should draw you in and catch your attention and leave you needing to know more. We are so gifted here in Zimbabwe to be surrounded by such a magnificent array of wildlife, each animal has its own story to tell. The eyes are the window to any soul and they should captivate your heart. A good picture is one the viewer can be lost in even if only for a second, but time should stand still and your own sould should herar the story of each and every picture. Only then will I have done my subject justice.