We were there for lunch and a walkabout. It so happened that it was the day of the launch of this campaign. It is an art exhibition with many activities lined up until 8th May, when it ends. Lucky us. My 8-month old nephew is such a cutie, giggling and reaching out to touch the nose of the larger Tapir exhibit as though it was alive.
It is estimated that there are just over a thousand Malayan Tapirs left in the wild. Their dwindling numbers is caused by deforestation and hunting. Like many other animals, it has fallen into the endangered species category.
ArtSemble presented an impressive three thousand clay tapir models, made by schoolchildren across Malaysia, for this art exhibition.
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| Three Thousand Strong Miniature Clay Tapirs |
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| Miniature Clay Tapirs |
The huge Malayan Tapir (pictured below) is made from bamboo and cloth.
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| Save The Malayan Tapir! |
I was enthralled to see this Tapir sand art by Ikhwan Saloot, known to be the only active sand sculptor in Malaysia. He hails from Penang.
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| Tapir Sand Sculpture |
If you wish to do your bit to help the Tapirs, you could contribute to the fund raising programme by purchasing a t-shirt or by joining the various workshops they have lined up such as clay art, face painting and origami. There's also a story-telling session - Timmy Tapir learns to do what's right. Sounds like something we should all listen to!
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| Tapirs Of The World |
A daily Facebook contest to win a plush toy is on-going.
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| Facebook Contest |
I have only seen the Malayan Tapir in pictures. This is how it will be like for the future generation as many more animals become extinct; a sad reality until we stop cutting down forests indiscriminately.
Will you be making your way to the Tapir art exhibition?
Such a great post, Sharon, and I love the sand tapirs!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Linda. The artist did a wonderful job! :)
DeleteI heard of this day before. Oooohh. The miniature clay tapir so so cute. Actually my dad has quite collection of miniature clay stuff at home. Used to buy a lot when he went to KL many many years ago.
ReplyDeleteOh my, I bet he has many interesting pieces, Rose! Would be great to see it. :D
DeleteI like the Sand Tapir sculpture. Looks so natural. I would love to get a T-shirt if it comes to Ipoh.
ReplyDeleteWell, I hope they're making this a nationwide campaign so you could, Nancy. Fingers crossed! :)
DeleteDon't think i heard about World Tapir Day?
ReplyDeleteNeither have I ..haha :P
DeleteSuch a wonderful way of creating awareness for the Malayan tapir. The clay figures are so cute!
ReplyDeleteThe kids did a great job! I was bowled over by how beautiful the clay miniatures turned out.
Deletei just knw there is tapir conservation centre at hulu selangor
ReplyDeletenot open to public but allow for group visit
Thanks for the tip, Emily. I will definitely check it out one day. :)
DeleteIt's always great to create such awareness. Were there any real ones there? LHave a wonderful week, my dear! xoxo
ReplyDeleteNo real ones, Shirley. It's probably not encouraged. :)
DeleteI didn't know this tapir's problem.
ReplyDeleteIt's one animal that's rarely in the news, on TV or other media. Too low key, I guess. :)
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