The beauty and magnificence of the animals in vast sweeping natural wilderness areas draw people from all over the world to Africa every year. Exotic animals we have only seen in our zoos are a very different experience when viewed in the wild. They not only excite our imaginations, they inspire many artistic endeavors, in media from film to canvas to sculpture.

And embroiderers are no different. We, too, want to capture the excitement of the wild animals on the Serengeti Plains.  So, let's get into our safari togs and climb aboard the land rover, because this week we're setting out to explore Africa.

Realistic images of the impressive lion, stately elephant, and the dashing zebra are artfully portrayed in composite designs that display both their natural habitat and portraits that communicate their noble spirits.

Four design panels will take us on a fanciful journey to see the diversity of African landscapes and touch on the rich animal life to be discovered there.

Integral to interpreting any land are the people, their traditions, wisdom, and lore. Colorful African animals are paired with stylized symbols in designs inspired by the ancient pictogram writings and traditions of the Akan people of western Africa. Delight the children with the stories, proverbs, and life's lessons that these pictograms and animals bring to mind.

Then, if we were to peek outside the tent as the sun is rising, and see the animals on the move, or catch a glimpse of wild animals silhouetted against the sunset, we know we'd be inspired to preserve the scene in embroidery. Climb aboard the land rover and have fun exploring all the new designs!