THE DEATH OF MAMMALS AT THE EDGE OF EXTINCTION: A CRITIQUE OF EXPLOITATION IN DRAWING ART

Abstract

Mammals constitute an important component of biodiversity within the Kingdom Animalia and possess distinctive characteristics that enable them to occupy a wide range of habitats. How ever, each year, mammalian species face unavoidable threats from hunting, illegal trade, and habitat scarcity, all of w hich endanger w ild populations. In addition, the lack of public literacy regarding protected mammal species has become a major contributing factor to the decline of their populations. This art project aims to (1) produce digital drawing artworks that emphasize the artist’s expression of concern regarding mammalian deaths on the brink of extinction. The method employed is the exploration of ideas through the creative process of digital drawing. Data were collected through observation of social phenomena, literature review, artwork analysis, and personal reflection on issues related to animal extinction. The central idea established in this project highlights the strong correlation between illegal hunting, land conversion, and the lack of conservation efforts, which collectively contribute to the extinction of various endangered species in Indonesia. The outcomes of this art project consist of eight digital drawing works that visualize several endangered mammals native to Indonesia. Hatching techniques and soft brush strokes are applied to create a realistic atmosphere that reflects the animals’ natural habitats. The conclusion of this art project indicates that realistic digital draw ing is an effective medium for representing endangered animals in Indonesia, as it is capable of conveying comprehensively the various factors contributing to their threatened status. The resulting artworks are expected to encourage audiences to actively participate in the preservation of wildlife throughout Indonesia.