I’ve always said, don’t paint it unless you’ve studied it, been chased by it, or done something to save it. I see myself as a recorder of nature. I think that’s my God-given job; to record nature while it’s still here because unfortunately, we’re losing it at such an incredible rate.
I’ve always said, don’t paint it unless you’ve studied it, been chased by it, or done something to save it. I see myself as a recorder of nature. I think that’s my God-given job; to record nature while it’s still here because unfortunately, we’re losing it at such an incredible rate.
Andrew Bone’s story began in the wild heart of Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia), where he attended Falcon College, a school immersed in the African bushveld. From a young age, he was exposed to conservation efforts like anti-snaring patrols and raptor identification, which sparked a lifelong passion for wildlife.
After serving in the military during Rhodesia’s guerilla war, Andrew found peace guiding safaris in the Zambezi Valley, where he swapped his rifle for a camera and explored the region’s rich biodiversity. Here, on the banks of the Zambezi River, he met his wife, Kelly. Together, they managed a private game reserve, where Andrew’s interest in art grew. What began as casual sketches evolved into a full-time career, with his work gaining international acclaim and leading to a partnership with Park West Gallery in Michigan, Detroit. In 2003 Andrew relocated his family to South Africa.
He used his art to raise awareness about conservation, a cause close to his heart. His dedication culminated in founding the Forever Wild Foundation in 2011, a non-profit organisation that provided direct, transparent support for wildlife projects across Southern Africa.
One of the Forever Wild Foundation’s cornerstone initiatives is cheetah conservation. In Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the cheetah population had dwindled, with only one known female left in the wild. Recognising the urgent need to bolster this endangered species, Andrew’s foundation partnered with Wildlife ACT and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife to introduce new cheetahs to the park. This effort involved constructing secure enclosures, sourcing cheetahs from genetically diverse populations, and providing the necessary monitoring equipment to track their movements and health.
UNIQUE FUNDRAISING
Andrew’s innovative fundraising approach – selling limited edition prints to supporters – has captured the attention of conservation enthusiasts worldwide. Through regular international cruises, he has created opportunities to showcase these prints to global travelers, turning them into passionate advocates for wildlife preservation. This strategy has attracted international donors and inspired investors to contribute to the Forever Wild Foundation’s mission. Their collective generosity enabled the introduction of eight cheetahs into the reserve, marking a significant milestone in conservation efforts. These new arrivals have since thrived, demonstrating the power of collaboration and innovative thinking in protecting endangered species.
UNIQUE FUNDRAISING
Andrew’s innovative fundraising approach – selling limited edition prints to supporters – has captured the attention of conservation enthusiasts worldwide. Through regular international cruises, he has created opportunities to showcase these prints to global travelers, turning them into passionate advocates for wildlife preservation. This strategy has attracted international donors and inspired investors to contribute to the Forever Wild Foundation’s mission. Their collective generosity enabled the introduction of eight cheetahs into the reserve, marking a significant milestone in conservation efforts. These new arrivals have since thrived, demonstrating the power of collaboration and innovative thinking in protecting endangered species.
CHEETAH PROJECT
THE WORK DOESN’T STOP THERE
Forever Wild has also funded new predator and raptor enclosures, replaced monitoring collars, and supported field teams. Andrew Bone’s vision is to see cheetahs flourish once more, not just in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi but across suitable reserves, bringing the swiftest predator back from the brink of extinction.
Join us in this mission to preserve Africa’s wildlife heritage. Your support helps protect and restore cheetah populations, safeguarding one of the continent’s most iconic species for future generations.