When Paula was invited as feature artist to have a solo exhibition at the Wills Domain Gallery in Yallingup, Western Australia she also agreed to be artist in residence. This gave her the perfect platform to talk about her involvement with conservation, particularly in the area of endangered species. Her collaboration with the 'Save African Rhino Foundation' in Perth, Western Australia have lead to the planning of her second African Art Safari Tour in 2015. Hosting this tour by donating her time has enabled her to assist in raising funds for the cause. The Save Foundation over the last 20 years have raised more than $5 million AUD. These funds are used to supply much needed equipment ie: uniforms, veterinary supplies, anti poaching training, vehicles, camera traps etc. Last year when Paula launched her first tour she was able to find out first hand the efforts being made in Zimbabwe by various groups who are desperately fighting against wildlife crime. Shortly after her return to Australia 2 of the rhino which she saw in the bush while on a rhino walk were killed by poachers. The situation has become diabolical. The Painted Dog Conservancy in Hwange are also fighting against terrible odds with so many of the animals being caught in crude snares. These animals die in the most horrendous way even though they are not specifically being targeted. Consequently their numbers are drastically dropping. Paula only only hopes that by informing people and taking them over on tour that they too will understand and be more pro-active to help stop wildlife crime.
Direct Correspondence to:
Paula Wiegmink c/o Paula Wiegmink - Fine Artist
108 Dunsborough Lakes Drive Dunsborough, WA
Australia 6281 Tel: +61410423433
