Habitat 56 Spring 2019

detroitzoo.org • HABITAT | 15 dzoo.org/support  you make a d i f ference Celebrating a Mother’s Love When children visit the Detroit Zoo, they often race from one habitat to another, excited to take in the sights and sounds. A new sculpture enriches the experience of visiting the Zoo and represents the joy that is shared between parents and children. The artwork, a bronze casting of a lioness playing with her cubs, was donated by Clara Graham in honor of her family. For generations, the Zoo has been a place where families – including the Grahams – have enjoyed the outdoors and reflected on nature. As Clara approached her 90th birthday, she wanted to do something special for the Zoo, but also for the community. Female Lion with Cubs by sculptor Tom Tischler signifies the very things for which Clara is deeply passionate: nature, art, motherhood and, above all, family. The striking piece of art is located directly across from the lion habitat, and is quickly becoming a favorite attraction for children and adults alike. At nearly 8 feet long, the sculpture is life-size, enabling children to clamber among the cubs and pretend the animals are real. “It was an honor to make this gift,” explains Clara. “Tom Tischler is wonderfully talented. His work captures the spirit of nature and is ideal for children to interact with and enjoy. As a mother, that was especially important to me.” The sculpture is a meaningful addition to the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) art collection, which includes approximately 140 pieces that illustrate the relationship between animals and humans through various cultures and times. “For many, the language of art deepens their understanding about a given topic,” explains Christine McNulty, curator of fine and performing arts for the Detroit Zoological Society. “It can convey and elicit an emotional response in a way that words might not, drawing people in and making them more receptive to appreciation and understanding. This particular piece speaks to children in a language even the youngest can understand.” “The sculpture embodies our longstanding commitment to rescuing animals, including the two lions who reside here now. It also symbolizes the strength of the female lion and her tenderness in nurturing her cubs,” says Jane Alessandrini, DZS chief development officer. “We are forever grateful to Clara for this wonderful gift.” An Invitation to Join the Renaissance Circle The Detroit Zoological Society Renaissance Circle is made up of caring individuals who enjoy all the benefits of membership while providing generous philanthropic support for our mission of Celebrating and Saving Wildlife . Members of the Renaissance Circle enjoy exclusive benefits, including: • Unlimited admission to the Detroit Zoo for two adult members and four guests or two adult members and six children • Recognition at the Renaissance Circle grotto across from Rackham Fountain • Five tickets to the Renaissance Circle Summer Picnic • Five tickets to a Members-only holiday reception celebrating Wild Lights • Private golf cart tour of the Zoo for up to five people To learn more about joining the Renaissance Circle, please contact Andrea Richards, manager of annual giving, at (248) 336-5729 or arichards@dzs.org .