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The creator of the most epic lion film ever, The Lion King (1994), has created a stunningly emotional tribute to Cecil, the African lion killed in Zimbabwe by an American hunter. Master animator Aaron Blaise created our favourite characters Simba, Mufasa and Scar from the hugely popular film, that lives on in the form of grand, theatric musicals all over the world.
This beautiful illustration depicts a giant fluffy cloud formation that looks like the majestic Cecil, as the rest of his pack gazes at a star filled sky, almost like they’re talking to the friend they’ve just lost. Cecil was one of Zimbabwe’s oldest lions at age 13. Blaise recently shared his tribute with the world via this Instagram post.
Doesn’t it remind you of Mufasa’s ghost talking through the clouds in the Disney film?
Blaise, has also worked on Beauty And The Beast, Aladdin and many other Disney productions. He was deeply moved by the tragic killing of Cecil and couldn’t help but create this breathtaking piece of art in his memory. Don’t miss the making of this beautiful illustration.
Blaise plans to sell prints of Cecil’s painting to raise awareness around the world, in order to drive us all in ensuring that Cecil lives on. The profits from the sales will be donated to the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU), the organisation that was studying and protecting Cecil.
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