G’DAY

Harold
E L A P H A N T P I C A S S O P A I N T S S E L F - P O T R A I T

written by Jandré Cruz

F ans of Noppakhoa, the painting elephant,

once again impressed with his recent
artwork that certainly took delicate
endeavour. Thousands gathered around
their TVs as they tuned in to witness the
chaotic auction, where many tried to get
their hands on Noppakhoa’s renowned
self-portrait. While his countless other
paintings were bid up to $700, his self-
portrait was obtained by Mary-Kate Mole
(UK) at the high price of $ 10,000, who
claims it was an easy purchase.

At the age of 11, Noppakhoa, also known as Peter, is in the prime of his artistic career. Some of
his other artworks include portraits of other elephants and nature, his latest artwork being his
self-portrait. He started his artistic journey eight years prior along with other elephants of the
Asian Elephant Art &Conservation Project (AEACP). Not only is his art astoundingly beautiful but
his works aim to produce finances for the elephants in Ayuthaya, a province in Thailand, where
over 90 elephants are situated. His work also provides for the income of the elephant trainers,
which his mahout, translated into elephant keeper, Mr Pipat, should be happy about.

Noppakho means “nine colours of the gemstone”, and many

believe his name led to his artistic talents. This bull elephant
is your typical eleven-year-old who loves to be the centre of
attention and simply enjoys the joys of life. Despite his love for
fun, when it comes to the canvas, Peter demonstrates
incredible ability with his paintbrush, which he holds with his
trunk! His mahout, Mr Pipat, says, “ While I refill his paintbrush
and paint, all I do is admire his artwork. I think he likes the fact
that I’m there with him when he has his moments of
creativity. I’m honoured to take care of such an influential
animal figure in today’s age.”
G’DAY Harold E L A P H A N T P I C A S S O P A I N T S
S E L F - P O T R A I T

Despite his ongoing support across the globe, there are a few who criticise and accuse
Noppakhoa and his inmates of being abused in their attempts to train elephant Picassos. Dr.
Hummer, an elephant specialist, agrees with these accusations and presents an opinion of his
own “ Elephants were never meant to make art. Let’s leave them to their natural lives as that is
the way it always should be.” However, the AEACP strives to protect the livelihood of all
creatures, especially their beloved elephants, in and out of training. Mia Cullinghamston,
founder of AEACP
says, “ As AEACP, we aim to provide as many elepants as possible with the best treatment they
could receive. We want our elephants to be happy, healthy, and we will do all we can to
provide them with an enriched existence. These funds we raise are for the livelihood of the
elephants and the work revolvingaorund them solely. That money will provide for their shelter,
food and comfort in our facilities.”

H owever, the AEACP strives to protect the livelihood of all

creatures, especially their beloved elephants, in and
out of training. Kawicha Holema, founder of AEACP
says, “ As AEACP, we aim to provide as many elephants
as possible with the best treatment they could receive.
We want our elephants to be happy, and healthy, and
we will do all we can to provide them with an enriched
existence. These funds we raise are for the livelihood of
the elephants and the work revolving around them
solely. ” . “Thanks to Noppakhoa, we can support these
elephants and still have enough to provide for the
workers. Now that is a blessing!” she joyfully confided
when interviewed by local journalists. Kawicha then
confirmed that more funds will be raised to continue to
support the needs of these talented elephants.