Spirit of Giants

mixed oil and acrylic on canvas

Measuring 121 X 91CM, this original painting is a one-of-a-kind piece and is signed by the artist.

Spirit of Giants, captures the quiet power and immense presence of an elephant standing in the misty light of an early morning. Steam rises gently around it, adding to the feeling of warmth, mystery and atmosphere. Its gaze is direct and unwavering, looking straight at you with an intelligence that feels both ancient and deeply aware.

I wanted the elephant to appear completely in control — powerful without needing to show aggression. There is a sense of thought, strength and quiet confidence in its expression, as though it understands far more than it reveals.

I used warm, muted colours throughout the painting, allowing the warmth of the elephant to emerge from the softer, cooler tones of the misty surroundings. This contrast helps give the animal a strong presence while keeping the overall feeling calm and atmospheric.

Creating the texture of such a magnificent animal was a huge learning curve for me as an artist. I pushed myself to find new ways of using my palette knives, building and sculpting layers of paint to suggest the folds, wrinkles and strength of the elephant's skin. Rather than simply painting texture, I wanted to make the surface feel almost physical — as though the elephant is emerging from the paint itself.

For me, Spirit of Giants is about strength, intelligence, control and quiet power — a reminder that true power does not always need to shout.