An artists quest for answers

I am an artist who has been very involved in rhino conservation for many years. In 2012 I was invited to South Africa to do a large scale painting of a rhino to raise awareness on World Rhino Day. I decided to do a preparatory painting  titled: ' Tears of the rhino' hear my call. This painting is now being used for a global awareness campaign for endangered species called One Fight Unite Say No.
The destruction of rhino, painted dog, vultures, pangolin and elephant in Africa is rampant and totally out of control.
I plan to go back to my homeland to do research in various areas to find out what is being done to combat this disaster unfolding before our eyes. I hopeto establish the impact poaching is having on all wildlife, humans and the environment. Looking at out how many of the smaller conservancies are combating wildlife crime and in what way we could assist them.
There is so much negativity on social media and yet there are so many people out there who are working tirelessly to save these now endangered species.
My ultimate goal is education. This as the only hope for the future. Our children are the future. Gathering information from an unbiased point of view and putting it together via video, photographic and personal interviews will be utilized to present  to schools, organizations, groups etc.
Another large aspect of my expedition is to explore how art can benefit organizations by drawing attention to endangered species. Interacting with school children using art  to communicate how they feel about wildlife and what their vision is for their preservation. 

I plan to meet with anti -poaching teams and interview their dedicated rangers to find out how this job impacts on their personal lives and those of their families.

If successful my expedition is planned for August 2016 and funds raised will assist me to make this a reality.
 There is no hidden agenda, I hope to meet up with as many conservationists, researchers etc.
I have made contact with various groups and conservancies who are prepared to assist me on the ground. The Painted Dog Conservation INC in Perth have put me in touch with the PDC in Zimbabwe who have have invited me to stay at their volunteers accommodation where I will be able to participate and see first hand how they track the dogs.
I know that what I do and will continue to do regardless is but a drop in the ocean. My only hope is that as humans inhabiting this planet and banding together we can put an end to the senseless slaughter of our iconic species. I hope to be a voice for our precious wildlife who cannot speak for themselves. They need our help desperately! I am doing this for the wildlife we stand to loose in our lifetime. Time is rapidly running out for them.