Dinokeng, South Africa – 2023

There is a dynamism to this simple portrait which elevates it and grabs the eye. The tail, the leading paw, the head position and the intensity of focus all oalesce to capture the soul of an alpha predator. The simpler and cleaner the image, the more the soul can stand out. The back lit dust left in his wake is helpful.

When I think of Black Panthers, I think of stealth and athletic precision and those are the virtues that I want to convey. If possible, I prefer eye contact as it does serve to increase the chance of an emotional connection with an audience.
The eyes are everything in a portrait, whether it’s of an animal or a human. It is the most important filter for me in an action shot – are the eyes sharp?

There is no room for compromise. Black Panthers are now the stuff of legends: first from Jungle Book Stories and then, of course, thanks to the Marvel series. They have become metaphors, just as lions and tigers did before them. Without the cat family, we would have fewer stories to tell and certainly less options for the names of sports franchises.

Kunsthuizen exclusive

Special size Archival Pigment print on 315gsm Hahnemühle photo rag Baryta paper

Numbered and handsigned and comes with signed Certificate of Authenticity.

The photograph is framed in a very exclusive handmade black wooden block frame with hand-tensioned cotton passe-partout and museum glass.

Prices are subject to change and availability.