Your purchase of elephant art directly contributes to supporting elephants who have been rescued from abusive conditions and saving the Asian elephants in Thailand.  At the beginning of the 20th century, there were about 200,000 Asian elephants.  Now, only a few thousand are left in Thailand.  This is why we feel strongly about supporting the Thai Conservation campaign.  Conservation is a very complex issue that requires integrated solutions. Purchasing these authentic elephant paintings is one part and tremedously helps pay for food, medical and environmental programs. 

Only some elephants enjoy and have this amazing talent to paint realistic art.  These elephants are treated very well and learn to paint with positive behavioral training techniques with favorite foods and positive words and touch.  We have done considerable research and are in contact with high level officials such as the Special Pachyderm Advisor to the Thai Queen's Foundation; research teams from the Smithsonian; veterinarians from the Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Sciences; Mahout University; and many others to ensure that the highest standards of elephant management is followed.

Yes, these elephants have an amazing gift of art and are enjoying their new life.  But, we have to remember that despite efforts to protect them, these animals are in great danger of becoming extinct.  As symbols of majesty and power, they are an important part of the Thai history.  Loosing these gentle giants would be to lose a big part of Thai culture and the world.  

Go to Artisan Stories to see interviews with Elephant Art Trainer Mahouts and their elephants.