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Dimensions
TBC
Medium
Bronze with Bronze Patina
Edition Number
/15
Sponsored By
Sponsor Name
Description
This is an enchanting bronze sculpture that masterfully melds whimsy with a profound message about wildlife conservation. In this spirited tableau, a Tapanuli orangutan, known for its distinct features and critically endangered status, grips the handlebars of a retro Vespa with unmistakable zest. The sidecar features a spare seat—an open invitation for the public to join the ride. This symbolic gesture transforms the sculpture from a playful scene into an interactive call to action, reminding viewers that the future of this species depends on human involvement and care. This joyful yet poignant composition invites viewers to smile at the unexpected sight of an orangutan confidently navigating a Vespa, while subtly urging them to confront the urgent realities of deforestation and habitat loss. “Tapanuli Orangutan Races in the Vespa Side Car” stands as both a celebration of the wonders of wildlife and a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve it.
Sculpture Title
Tapanuli Orangutan Races in the Vespa Side Car
Animal Name
Name goes here
Conservation Status
Critically Endangered
About the Tapanuli Orangutan
The Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis) is the rarest great ape species in the world, found only in the Batang Toru forest ecosystem of North Sumatra, Indonesia. Discovered as a distinct species in 2017, it is genetically and morphologically different from both the Sumatran and Bornean orangutans. Tapanuli orangutans live in montane and hill forests at elevations between 300 and 1,300 meters, feeding mainly on fruits, leaves, bark, and insects. They are highly intelligent, solitary primates that build nests in trees each night and play a vital role in forest regeneration through seed dispersal.
The Tapanuli orangutan is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List, with an estimated fewer than 800 individuals remaining in the wild. Their survival is threatened by habitat loss, illegal hunting, and infrastructure development, particularly the construction of a hydroelectric dam in the Batang Toru region, which fragments their already limited habitat. Conservation organizations are working to protect remaining forest areas, establish wildlife corridors, and engage local communities in sustainable land-use practices. Without immediate and effective protection, the Tapanuli orangutan faces a high risk of extinction within the next few decades.
How to Help
Inspired by animals that Gillie and Marc met on their travels, we invite the public to discover and interact with these beautiful creatures up close and personal – this allows audiences to connect, take photographs and share their favourite species with friends and family.
With more exposure comes more awareness and builds on the love we already have for animals around the world. With love comes a greater sense of urgency to create a change and save all endangered animals.
The sculpture will be aligned with the hashtag #GillieandMarc and #LoveTheLast to raise unparalleled awareness about the sculpture’s cause across the globe.
Give Back to Love The Last Wildlife Fund
With every edition purchased, Gillie and Marc will donate a percentage of proceeds to support Love The Last Wildlife Fund.
Love The Last Wildlife Fund is a global conservation organization devoted to saving 21 of the most critically endangered animals on Earth. Motivated by a deep love for nature and wildlife, the Fund focuses on protecting species that stand on the very edge of extinction through science-driven conservation, habitat restoration, and community collaboration.
Its initiatives include anti-poaching efforts, rescue and rehabilitation programs, and sustainable development projects that help local communities coexist with wildlife. By combining compassion with action, Love The Last Wildlife Fund works to ensure that these 21 remarkable species are not lost forever, preserving the planet’s natural heritage for future generations.
Artwork Features
Gillie and Marc love working in bronze for many reasons. Bronze is a very hardy material and will last forever. As experts in coloring bronze, Gillie and Marc enjoy experimenting with their sculptures, adding a splash of color to brighten the work, making it even more unique. > Read more
