An exhibition of nearly 50 wildlife-themed artworks by comic artist Jeet Zdung is on display through November 20 at Sống or Live Platform in the central province of Hue City.

The cover of the comic book Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear by author Trang Nguyen and illustrator Jeet Zdung.

According to the organizer, contemporary wildlife art has gradually lost its sense of inclusivity and fallen under the sway of human narratives, as seen in the works of Damien Hirst or Kohei Nawa.

On the other hand, as a result of the many discussions about creativity in wildlife art, the bond between artists, scientists, and wildlife conservationists has grown stronger over time. This is the story of Jeet Zdung - an artist - and Trang Nguyen - a wildlife conservationist - as they worked together in Cat Tien National Park, Yok Don National Park, with the organization Free The Bears to create "Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear" and "Saving H'non: Chang and the Elephant."

Wildlife art not only reproduces the various forms and appearances of the natural world but also functions as a form of advocacy for wildlife conservation. The artworks capture the last moments in the lives of these animals, a reminder of the great losses in our ecology.

Illustration in the comic Saving H'non: Chang and the Elephant themed fauna in Yok Don National Park by Jeet Dzung

Following the "Into Wildlife" exhibition in July 2023 at the International Center for Interdisciplinary Science and Education (ICISE) in Quy Nhon, "AWAKE" presents the point of view of individuals who have dedicated themselves to observing the lives of these precious species. Their approach is motivated by deep respect and endless love as they capture the lives and stories of these creatures. By observing these illustrations and the artists' process, viewers are given the opportunity to study wildlife more closely, with a more romantic narrative, and ultimately become more aware of the work and importance of the wildlife conservation industry.

The exhibition is open to the public, nature lovers, and wildlife conservation researchers.

Illustration from the comic book Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear.

Illustration from the comic book Saving H'on: Chang and the Elephant.