Ali Beck
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
​Having moved to the Southern Highlands, I'm now in the throes of taking up my brushes again after a lengthy gap...my last major effort was illustrating a children's book called 'The Bush Jumper', written by Jean Chapman. Before that I had a solo exhibition of watercolours and made contributions to various mixed exhibitions, while primarily earning my living as a piano teacher.
I've now discovered that drawing and watercolours are my passions and am setting about reacquainting myself with all the joys and challenges they present. Illustrating gives vent to my desire for storytelling, and with a life long interest in children's literature, another children's book would be a dream come true.
http://aliabec.wix.com/illustrator
ARTIST'S REASON FOR PARTICIPATING
A trip to Borneo in 2006 to see some of the world's most exotic ( but disappearing ) flora and fauna, put me in touch first hand with the plight of the orangutan. It's impossible not to fall in love with these animals who, for the most part are slow, peaceful and very considered. The fact that they seem so human at times makes them enormously appealing. The devastation of their habitat by the palm oil industry is, alas, apparent throughout the length and breadth of the country, but the tireless work undertaken at many of the sanctuaries is very encouraging. Rescue, rehabilitation and release make for unrelenting work, which requires all the financial help it can get, so it's a privilege to contribute in some small way to Jess's commitment to provide funds for such a worthy project.
PELANGI
From Birdcage to Baby School Explorer
Pelangi, which means “rainbow” in Indonesian, arrived at International Animal Rescue’s (IAR) Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in mid-September 2013, after being rescued from life as a pet. Just two years old, she had spent nearly a year confined in a birdcage, dressed in baby clothes, and treated like a human child. Her owners reportedly purchased her for $50 USD, claiming they felt sorry for her—but good intentions can still have heartbreaking consequences.
Her diet consisted of powdered milk and fruit—far from the complex nutritional needs of a young orangutan. When she arrived, Pelangi clung to a teddy bear for comfort, a reminder of her unnatural upbringing and deep need for security.
Despite her traumatic start, Pelangi began to adjust. In quarantine, she showed curiosity and spirit, playing in the trees during supervised sessions and climbing higher each day. She ate fruits and vegetables well, and began to grow stronger and more confident.
After clearing her health checks, Pelangi entered baby school—and quickly made friends. She is known for her fun, adventurous personality, and continues to explore the forest with increasing bravery.
Pelangi’s story is one of resilience. From the bars of a birdcage to the branches of the treetops, she is now on the path toward a wild future—just where rainbows belong.
