Buzz
Note: This piece was first published in 2009. As we are in the midst of server migration this week, we kindly ask for your understanding as we share some timeless favorites.
Artistic expression isn't limited to humans. While debates about the definition of art may never end, certain animals are creating and even selling their works, placing them a step ahead of many aspiring artists. Here are six remarkable species that have mastered the art of painting.
1. Koopa the Artistic Turtle
Koopa, a turtle owned by artist Kira Ayn Varszegi, has learned impressive skills over the years, including standing on his hind legs and creating paintings. Check out a video of Koopa showcasing his talent. Over a 5-year career, Koopa completed 827 paintings—an impressive feat for a turtle! Although he has retired due to health concerns, some of his works remain available for purchase. Stay updated on Koopa's journey through his MySpace page or Kira's blog.
2. Stewie the Talented Tamandua
Stewie, a tamandua often referred to as an anteater, shared the spotlight with his companion Pua, another trained tamandua, in one of the Dr. Dolittle sequels. Beyond acting, Stewie had a knack for painting. Witness Stewie's artistic journey in this video. Sadly, Stewie passed away in February 2008 due to an autoimmune condition, but his legacy endures through photos and artwork.
3. Cheeta the Artistic Chimpanzee
Given their close relation to humans, it's no wonder many apes engage in artistic endeavors. Among them, Cheeta, the retired star of numerous Tarzan films, stands out. Now 76, Cheeta resides at the C.H.E.E.T.A. Primate Sanctuary in Palm Springs, California, where he spends his time painting. For $125 plus shipping, you can own one of Cheeta's creations, with proceeds supporting the sanctuary.
4. Smithfield the Creative Pig
Smithfield, a Vietnamese potbellied pig, has always demonstrated a remarkable ability to learn new skills. Living in Richmond, Virginia, he creates paintings by gripping a brush with his mouth. Beyond his artistic talents, Smithfield makes public appearances for audiences and on television, showcasing tricks such as posing for photos and playing musical instruments. Despite battling cancer twice, which left a visible mark on his snout, Smithfield continues to thrive. His artwork is available for purchase on his website.
5. Cholla the Artistic Horse
Cholla, a mustang-quarter horse hybrid, possesses a rare gift for painting—especially for a horse. He didn’t start painting until he was 19, holding brushes in his mouth. Initially wary of humans, Cholla eventually bonded with his owner Renee, following her everywhere and even observing her paint fences. When provided with brushes and a sturdy easel, his artistic journey began. Proceeds from Cholla's artwork support numerous charitable causes.
6. Hong the Painting Elephant
Hong is among the elephants participating in the Asian Elephant Art & Conservation Project. Rescued from an abusive situation, she now resides at the Maetaman Elephant Camp in Thailand, where nine elephants have mastered painting. Unlike other animal artists, these elephants create representational art rather than abstract pieces.
Khun Anchalee Kalmapijit, the Operations Director, initially learned the art of elephant painting at the Elephant Conservation Center in Lampang. In 2000, she pioneered the training of elephant artists in Chiang Mai. The process began with teaching the elephants to hold a brush using their trunks. Initially, the elephants were hesitant, dropping the unfamiliar brushes repeatedly. Over time, they adapted, as elephants naturally grasp objects by curling their trunks. Once comfortable, the elephants were introduced to brushes dipped in paint, creating lines and dots on paper. This practice mirrors how humans learn to write—through repetition. Mastering proper lines took months, depending on practice frequency. Later, mahouts guided the elephants to paint portraits or flowers by combining their learned strokes, reinforced with practice, bananas, and sugar cane.
Watch Hong in action as she creates one of her unique paintings in this video. Purchasing an elephant painting directly supports the elephants and their sanctuaries.
I can't help but wonder how my house cats and hermit crabs would fare with a set of watercolors...
