This series ceramic sculptures, is inspired by the elusive nature and patterned camouflage of the African and Cape Leopard. They reflect the challenges wild animals face as they adapt to survive amidst human encroachment, striving to avoid conflict or capture.

The leopard is captured in a “play bow” posture, a specific body posture observed in leopards and other animals, indicating an invitation to play. It is a clear and universal signal among social animals that communicates friendly and non-aggressive intentions.

It signals a desire to engage in playful activities like chasing, wrestling, or mock fighting. It helps avoid misunderstandings during rough play, clarifying that the behavior is non-aggressive. The play bow fosters positive interactions and strengthens social bonds between animals. It serves as a clear and widely understood body language cue, even across different species in some cases.

Each sculpture is individually hand-painted and glazed. The colours echo the elegant white and colourful earthenware ceramics of China’s Ming Dynasty (1368–1644), a period that perfected cobalt underglaze blue decoration. During this time, Ming ceramics became highly sought-after exports, symbolizing a flourishing market economy.