Senkwekwe: gorilla beringei beringei (mountain gorilla)

Images(2)

Senkwekwe: gorilla beringei beringei (mountain gorilla)

Artist Anne Lemanski American, born 1969

Date2009

MediumCopper rod, archival inkjet print on paper, leather, and artificial sinew

Dimensions26 x 13 x 17 in. (66 x 33 x 43.2 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LinePurchased with funds from the William R. Roberson Jr. and Frances M. Roberson Endowed Fund for North Carolina Art

Object number2012.20.1

On View

Not on view

Label TextSenkwekwe, the gorilla represented in this artwork, was the head of the Rugendo gorilla family and was among seven mountain gorillas killed in 2007 in Virunga National Park, DR Congo. There are just 680 mountain gorillas worldwide, with around 200 residing in Virunga National Park. Unfortunately, a three-way guerrilla war, poaching, and illegal charcoal production have devastated the park over the past thirty years.

Through her portrayal of Senkwekwe, Lemanski signifies the tragic consequences of human-wildlife conflict and environmental destruction. She also inspires hope for a future where humanity takes responsibility for safeguarding our endangered species and their habitats.
[L. Dougherty, "The People's Collection, Reimagined," 2024]ProvenanceCreated United States, 2009; collection of the artist; sold to NCMA, 2012.Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, “Close to Home,” February 14–August 10, 2014.

Raleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "The People's Collection Reimagined," June 5, 2024-November 18, 2024.
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