Rama was trained in the spray technique for more serious reasons than painting. Elephants are susceptible to tuberculosis and need to be tested routinely for the disease. To administer the test, staff must put sterile saline into his trunk and have him hold it there for a few moments, then spray the solution into a collection bag for testing. This is why Rama learned his spray technique.

Rama, however, liked this game and began following keepers around, continuing to blow air out his trunk. Minds began turning and, after careful thought, paint was introduced. Rama uses only nontoxic paints in his trunk, tempera paint or finger paint, just like that used in preschool and kindergarten. We believe Rama enjoys this technique and looks forward to painting.

Once Rama had mastered the spray technique, it was time to try something new. Brushing was a way to involve the trunk muscles and give Rama more creative freedom. With his own brush, he is free to paint the canvas however he chooses. Sometimes he misses the canvas completely, other times he is very straight in his brush strokes, and yet other times his movements are fluid and circular.

As Rama brushes, his ears come out and he shakes his head almost as child would. Staff believe he is showing his excitement and interest in painting. When finished, he hands the brush back to his keeper.

Back to Top

Together these two techniques create a truly unique piece of art. Together with the love and caring of the staff — and what staff believes is the general enthusiasm of Rama — art is created every time he paints.

Rama can walk away at any time and choose not to paint. He is free to choose to participate. This is meant to be fun and enriching to his life at the Oregon Zoo. He is truly an amazing elephant.

Back to Top