"Gaze into the eyes of a gorilla and you will be changed forever"

I love the great apes, all so different, beautiful and unique. When i went to twycross zoo in the spring, i was lucky enough to be stared at by a gorilla ... only inches away. Joe their resident celebrity, is a silverback male. And it would seem he has nothng better to do but sit in his indoor section of his enclosure and look at the pople thought his window. Naturally people are crouding round, wanting to look. I was at the back doing quick sketches making my way forward. When i got there i crouched down. He shifted his position, leant on his hand and looked directly at me. I honestly thought i would cry. They are the deepest,darkest most scrutinising yet gentle eyes that could be upon any creature.

This is an advancement of that sketch. Inks, conte and masking tape. I'm happy with his face, but i made his hair too long & thick & his crown too high so he looks more like a mountain gorilla than a lowland. Oh well.