John Banovich
Kwitonda, 2019
oil on belgian linen
66.25h x 120w in
168.28h x 304.80w cm
Private Commission
Of the painting "Kwitonda", a newly completed portrayal of the Kwitonda gorilla family, the artist writes. ‘I have set out to create a dramatic work that transports the viewer to the moment when you are nearly surrounded by gorillas, a moment when your heart skips a beat with excitement and you are completely absorbed in the moment.’ The Kwitonda group is a highy successful family lead by three massive silver backs named, Karevuro, Kigoma and Lisanga.
They play on a forested slope in the shadow of a giant volcano standing guard over Singita’s new Kwitonda Lodge, which sits on 178 acres bordering Volcanoes National Park. Picture lush forest and rolling mist from the elegant comfort of the lounge; warm colours, dark wood and leather conspire to exquisite effect. John’s piece hangs in the dining room and is framed to give the illusion of a window onto the Kwitonda clan – and indeed, there is no better place from which to experience these magnificent creatures.