Tonka the Knox Zoo Elephant

This colored pencil drawing honors Tonka, the beloved elephant of the Knoxville Zoo, who tragically passed away from an injury. The artwork captures the majestic presence of Tonka with intricate details, showcasing his large, powerful frame and characteristic wrinkles. His skin is beautifully rendered with shades of gray and soft brown, bringing out the texture and depth of his massive body. The drawing emphasizes Tonka’s gentle, wise eyes, which are portrayed with warm tones of amber and brown, reflecting his calm and intelligent nature. His long, graceful trunk is delicately shaded, adding movement and life to the piece. The background is softly blurred, allowing Tonka to remain the focal point, with a subtle nod to the zoo environment in the distant horizon. This piece not only captures the physical strength of this incredible animal but also the warmth and kindness he brought to those who knew him, serving as a heartfelt tribute to his memory and the impact he had on the Knoxville Zoo community.

Materials:

- Archival watercolor textured off white paper

- This is a high quality print

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