John Banovich
Stallion, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
60h x 40w in
152.40h x 101.60w cm
Framed: 63.75h x 43.50w in
161.93h x 110.49w cm
JBO1225
The ‘Stallion’ is a face-on portrait of a zebra that’s all about simplicity and impact. In the wild, encountering the gaze of a zebra is a moment of striking intensity. The background is stripped away, leaving just you and the zebra locked in a moment. The zebra’s eyes, framed by its distinctive black and white stripes, exude a captivating combination of curiosity and wariness. The dark, soulful orbs seem to hold a wealth of untamed spirit and wisdom, reflecting the creature’s wild nature, while also drawing parallels to the enigmatic eyes of a wild ‘stallion.’ There’s a certain alertness in their gaze, a testament to their survival instincts honed in the vast African savannas. As an artist, ‘Stallion’ is my way of capturing the raw beauty and strength of the zebra in contemporary way, making it a symbol of untamed freedom found in wild Africa!
John Banovich
Edge of the Waterhole, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
16h x 21w in
40.64h x 53.34w cm
Framed: 23.50h x 28.50w in
59.69h x 72.39w cm
JBO1221
In a remote, sun-drenched corner of Africa, a waterhole glistens under the sun, reflecting the vibrant colors of the surrounding vegetation and wildlife. It is a lifeline in this arid terrain, a gathering place for the myriad creatures that depend on its life-sustaining waters. At the water’s edge, a herd of magnificent kudu, including a male with his long, spiraled horns and distinctive white stripes that make him instantly recognizable, converge to quench their thirst.
However, two kudu stand out from the rest as they are positioned at the back of the herd, assuming the role of lookouts over their family, with their large, expressive eyes scanning the horizon for potential danger. Every muscle in their bodies tenses as they remain watchful, ready to sound the alarm should a predator approach. Survival is a daily struggle, and the essence of life is as pure and timeless as the continent itself, It is a tribute to the resilience of the kudu and the breathtaking landscapes that define the heart of Africa.
John Banovich
Grove, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
60h x 30w in
152.40h x 76.20w cm
Framed: 63.50h x 33.50w in
161.29h x 85.09w cm
JBO1226
A family of aspen trees takes center stage in this autumn spectacle, where the canvas becomes a celebration of seasons, with these aspen trees proudly showcasing the dance of change. Light and shadow play tag among the leaves, creating warmth and coolness that bring the forest floor to life. The sun-kissed leaves seem to rustle in a gentle breeze, only imagined but felt in the quiet moments of creation.
What makes painting trees so enjoyable is the chance to capture the essence of time’s gentle touch. The textured trunks tell stories of years passed, and the leaves seem ready to whisper secrets in the wind. The colors on my palette shift from magenta to cadmium yellow, tera rosa, viridian and burnt sienna, mirroring the subtle, fleeting magic of fall. “Grove” invites you to step into a moment where time slows down, to feel the crisp air, and to witness the beauty of autumn through the eyes of an artist.
John Banovich
Leopard Moon, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
24h x 30w in
60.96h x 76.20w cm
Framed: 30.50h x 36.50w x 2.50d in
77.47h x 92.71w x 6.35d cm
JBO1214
I vividly remember the thrill that rushed through me when I spotted a leopard so gracefully perched on a tree limb. Its commanding presence, adorned with those striking spots and piercing eyes, left me in awe. I observed in silence, mesmerized by the interplay of shadows and highlights created by the moonlight on its sleek fur. The silvery-blue light of the moon created a sense of magic and mystery in the air. The anticipation in the leopard’s gaze hinted at its elusive prey, hidden somewhere in the shadows.
As an artist, it is my mission to capture not just the physical appearance of wildlife but also their essence and the emotions they evoke. In “Leopard Moon,” I sought to convey the elusive nature of this magnificent creature, its independence, and the sense of wonder it brings.
John Banovich
Sumatran Man-Eater, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
10h x 10w in
25.40h x 25.40w cm
Framed: 16.25h x 16.25w in
41.28h x 41.28w cm
JBO1222
In this artwork, I’ve endeavored to convey not just an image but an experience—a glimpse into the wild, where beauty and danger coalesce in the heart of Sumatra. “Sumatran Man-Eater” portrays a fierce Sumatran tiger, infamous for taking nine lives in the jungles of Sumatra. He was being held in a large enclosure and was supposed to be released at some point back into the wild. However, based on his aggression toward humans, charging ferociously, and slamming into the wire, he remained in captivity forever. This painting accentuates the tiger’s intense, predatory expression, with piercing eyes and bared teeth that serve as a chilling reminder of its deadly nature. As I step back to observe, the essence of the Sumatran tiger roars back at me.
John Banovich
By Her Side, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
24h x 30w in
60.96h x 76.20w cm
Framed: 31.75h x 37.75w in
80.65h x 95.89w cm
JBO1219
As I immerse myself in the canvas, it initiates a journey, compelling me to explore the intricate dance between life and death, the interplay of strength and vulnerability, and the nuanced harmony that defines survival in the untamed wilderness. At the core of this composition lies a visceral moment—an impactful zebra kill. Beneath the expansive, clear blue sky, a male and female lion stand united, their attention fixed on the distant horizon beyond the shared zebra kill. “By Her Side” encapsulates a fleeting yet powerful moment where life unfolds against an expansive backdrop, and the lioness has a renewed confidence against any possible intruders with her male counterpart standing by her side. This portrayal accentuates the essential interdependence between male and female lions, underscoring how their collaboration is pivotal to navigating the challenges of life on the African Savannah.
John Banovich
The Leopard of Kilimanjaro, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
30h x 30w in
76.20h x 76.20w cm
Framed: 36h x 35.75w in
91.44h x 90.81w cm
JBO1204
On a recent trip, I found myself captivated by a scene that unfolded beneath the grandeur of Mount Kilimanjaro. The air was still, broken only by the soft sounds of the wild. In front of me, a fallen tree, weathered by time, served as a perch for a solitary leopard. Its golden fur blended with the earth, and it gazed out over the African landscape. I imagined many times in the tree’s ancient past, as well as its modern stoic version, that a leopard took advantage of its view. The leopard’s eyes were fixed on the horizon, surveying the unspoiled simplicity of the savannah and the game stretched out in his lair. Kilimanjaro stood tall, its snow-capped peak reaching for the sky. ‘The Leopard of Kilimanjaro’ captures a moment of solitude in this timeless place.
John Banovich
Under the Roof of Africa, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
12h x 16w in
30.48h x 40.64w cm
Framed: 17.25h x 21.25w x 1d in
43.82h x 53.98w x 2.54d cm
JBO1201
A solitary bull elephant stands majestically in the African Savannah, alone in his thoughts. He is framed against the breathtaking backdrop of the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Its snow-capped peaks rising in the distant sky. Its deep brown skin contrasts against the golden grass and his huge body and heavy tusks a symbol of strength and courage. Scattered around him are delicate egrets in graceful flight, as if offering him a moment of tranquility. The vibrant blues, oranges, and yellows of the landscape bring to life the title of this oil painting, “Under the Roof of Africa”, where the majestic power of nature is on full display.
John Banovich
Okavango's Golden Hour, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
15h x 48w x 1.50d in
38.10h x 121.92w x 3.81d cm
Framed: 22.75h x 55.50w x 3d in
57.79h x 140.97w x 7.62d cm
JBO1205
During a safari to Botswana, I had the privilege of witnessing a group of elephants quenching their thirst at the Okavango water hole, an experience that served as the inspiration for the painting titled “Okavango’s Golden Hour.” This canvas transported me back to that magical moment when a group of elephants gathered in the water under the warm, setting sun.
In the foreground, the calm waters sparkled, reflecting the fleeting blue sky and creating a peaceful, glassy surface. The elephants moved gracefully through the water, with some of their bodies partly submerged, and their wrinkled, gray skin seemed to glow in the soft evening light. The painting captures the serene and enchanting beauty of the Okavango Delta during this special time of day, where time seems to stand still, allowing us to witness the harmonious rhythms of African wildlife in all their glory.
John Banovich
Old Warrior, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
10h x 10w in
25.40h x 25.40w cm
Framed: 16.25h x 16.25w x 1d in
41.28h x 41.28w x 2.54d cm
JBO1212
A weathered lion’s face, bearing the marks of time and tales untold. “Old Warrior” is not just about age, but about the strength and courage that come with enduring the passage of time. It speaks of an unwavering spirit that propels the lion onward with remarkable tenacity.
In the eyes, I find a connection to the essence of life’s journey - the struggles faced and the victories won. They seem to peer directly into my soul, evoking emotions that stir within me a profound sense of admiration for this majestic being and a reflection of my own experiences.
John Banovich
Widowmaker, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
40h x 60w in
101.60h x 152.40w cm
Framed: 48.75h x 68.50w in
123.83h x 173.99w cm
JBO1228
Aptly named for its formidable reputation, the buffalo stands as a symbol of strength and resilience in the heart of the African wilderness. The title, “Widowmaker,” alludes to the inherent danger associated with encountering this majestic beast. The intensity in its gaze tells a tale of an animal that commands respect and evokes a sense of both awe and caution. Yet, within this portrayal, a nuanced narrative unfolds. Perched on the buffalo, two oxpeckers engage in a cooperative grooming ritual. This scene not only adds a touch of natural symbiosis but also serves as a poignant metaphor. The buffalo, despite its intimidating presence, relies on the assistance of smaller beings for its well-being, creating a subtle contrast between its formidable reputation and its vulnerability in the grand scheme of nature.
John Banovich
Reflections of Giants, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
24h x 36w in
60.96h x 91.44w cm
Framed: 31.25h x 43.50w in
79.38h x 110.49w cm
JBO1199
“Reflections of Giants” paints a vivid scene in the heart of an African landscape in the midst of a scorching afternoon. A group of five elephant bulls amble toward a peaceful waterhole. Their massive, wrinkled bodies stand out against the bright daylight, showcasing the raw power and resilience of these gentle creatures. Surrounding the elephants, a lively assortment of birds adds movement and color to the scene. Doves soar in the sky, while guineafowl flit around, creating a lively atmosphere. The waterhole, a haven in the heat, reflects the elephants’ approach. Ripples form on the surface as they draw near, capturing the essence of this quiet moment in the African wilderness. “Reflections of Giants” invites you to be with the beauty of nature—where elephants and birds converge at a waterhole under the blazing sun, creating a timeless snapshot of life on the African Savanna.
John Banovich
Into the Delta, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
12h x 18w in
30.48h x 45.72w x 1.91d cm
Framed: 17h x 23w x 2d in
43.18h x 58.42w x 5.08d cm
JBO1206
Painting elephants is one of my favorite subjects for several reasons. Elephants possess a captivating aura of grace and power, and their sheer size and majestic presence are mesmerizing, offering endless inspiration for an artist’s brush. The delicate ripples generated by their movement bring the water to life, transforming it into a shimmering canvas of reflections. I find myself captivated by the elephants’ presence. Their size alone is awe-inspiring, evoking a sense of respect and admiration. It’s as if their very essence fills the space around them, commanding attention and reverence. But it’s not just their physicality that draws me in; it’s their interaction with the water that truly captivates my imagination.
As I immerse myself in “Into the Delta,” my gaze settles on two magnificent elephants, gracefully traversing the waters of an ever changing delta. I can almost feel the coolness of the water, and I imagine the soft sound of droplets cascading from their trunks. They move with a quiet confidence, their colossal bodies effortlessly navigating through the gentle waters. It is as if the entire world around them pauses, paying homage to their grandeur.
John Banovich
Nyathi
oil on Belgian linen
40h x 60w in
101.60h x 152.40w cm
Framed: 43.50h x 83.50w x 2.25d in
110.49h x 212.09w x 5.72d cm
JBO1227
In black and white tones, ‘Nyathi’ brings forth the commanding visage of a Cape buffalo, a living embodiment of the untamed spirit coursing through the African Savannah. Standing before the canvas, I’m drawn into the rugged beauty of the creature, its piercing gaze, and the imposing grandeur of its formidable horns. Named after the Ndebele word for buffalo, ‘Nyathi’ forms a connection between myself and the people of Africa, a mutual respect for the land and its inhabitants. It’s more than just a title; it serves as a bridge to the very pulse of the untamed, a connection that echoes profoundly within. The canvas becomes a space where the shared history and intrinsic connection between humankind and the wild unfold, serving as a reminder that our destinies are intertwined under the vast African sky.
John Banovich
When Actions Speak Louder Than Words, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
20h x 24w in
50.80h x 60.96w cm
Framed: 26.50h x 30.50w in
67.31h x 77.47w cm
JBO1220
The Hadzabe tribe, indigenous people of Northern Tanzania, gather to showcase their remarkable archery skills. They stand with bows drawn, arrows ready to be loosed. Their intense concentration demonstrates the deep connection they have with their traditional archery techniques. Dressed in vibrant tribal attire, they create a colorful contrast against the natural African backdrop. In the background, two Hadzabe women add a touch of lightheartedness to the scene, their giggles echoing through the air. Their presence underscores the sense of community and joy within the tribe.
At the center of attention is a respected Hadzabe. He exudes confidence as he steps forward to demonstrate his exceptional archery skills, drawing admiration from the other members of the tribe. “When Actions Speak Louder than Words” immortalizes a moment where the Hadzabe people come together to honor their past and carry their legacy into the future, a poignant reminder that in their world, actions indeed speak louder than words.
John Banovich
The Archer, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
12h x 9w in
30.48h x 22.86w cm
Framed: 17.50h x 20.50w in
44.45h x 52.07w cm
JBO1231
In “The Archer,” I’m right there in the African grasslands, eyes fixed on a Hadzabe hunter. He’s down on one knee, bow drawn, ready to let the arrow fly. The air is thick with heat, and the grasses sway in the midday breeze. The hunter, decked out in traditional gear with intricate beadwork, is all muscle and concentration. His focus is intense, directed at something unseen in the distance. You can feel the tension in the air. I’ve frozen the moment right before the shot, capturing the raw skill and connection between man and nature. The landscape is alive and vibrant with hues of viridian, magenta and cadmium yellow. “The Archer”is a snapshot of survival, tradition, and the unbreakable link between humans and the wild.
John Banovich
Icon, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
13h x 19w in
33.02h x 48.26w cm
Framed: 19.25h x 25.25w in
48.90h x 64.14w cm
JBO1230
The title, “Icon,” takes on a deeper meaning as I consider the historical significance of the American bison. Once numbering in the millions, these colossal creatures were the lifeblood of Native American cultures and a source of sustenance for pioneers. They embodied the abundance and wild expanses that defined the American frontier. As settlers ventured westward, the bison became an icon of both prosperity and tragedy. The sheer scale and power are seen even today, as they were the ecological engines of the great plains, literally shaping the landscapes they inhabited and symbolizing the vast, unconquered expanse of the West. Yet, as progress marched on, so too did the decline of these herds—commercial market hunting and habitat loss due to livestock conversion. By the 1900s, they were on the brink of extinction. But today, they are coming back, with about 500,000, with most on private and indigenous peoples’ lands.
In this painting, the bison stands alone but not forgotten. It is a timeless representation of a bygone era, a poignant reminder of the profound impact the West had on our nation’s identity.
John Banovich
Sounds of September, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
16h x 25w in
40.64h x 63.50w cm
Framed: 24h x 33w in
60.96h x 83.82w cm
JBO1229
In Montana’s quiet mountains, ‘Sounds of September’ captures the essence—the gentle murmurs of elk moving through the landscape, distant wildlife calls, and changing whispers of the season. The titled canvas reflects the crisp mountain air and the untamed spirit of fall. As a Montana artist, I invite you to feel the tranquility and connect with this place. The play of light and dark shadows enhances the scene, offering a simple reminder of the echoes through pine trees, fallen logs, and the lone bull elk. Two magpie birds, with their presence, gracefully join the composition, contributing to the natural symphony that defines the painting.
John Banovich
Buffalo Hunter II, 2023
oil on Belgian linen
8h x 10w in
20.32h x 25.40w cm
Framed: 13.25h x 15.25w x 3d in
33.66h x 38.74w x 7.62d cm
JBO1232
“Buffalo Hunter II,” distills the essence of the African wilderness into a moment of quiet intensity, portrayed with a nostalgic touch. The canvas showcases a male lion at its center, a study in regality as it reclines against a backdrop of muted earth tones, painted in a sepia tone reminiscent of historical images. The lion’s gaze, a mixture of vigilance and contemplation, pierces through, inviting you to share in the solemnity of the scene. Behind the lion, a solitary Cape buffalo skull rests against the landscape. Its weathered surface echoes tales of survival, a silent witness to the challenges faced and overcome in the unforgiving wild. The lion’s gaze draws you in, mixing watchfulness and thoughtfulness. The absence of an expansive Savannah in the background directs attention to the intimate connection between the lion and the remnants of the buffalo. The sepia tone adds a timeless quality, enhancing the painting’s evocation of the rich history and untamed beauty of the African wilderness.
John Banovich
Under a Wolf Moon, 2022
oil on Belgian linen
44h x 100w in
111.76h x 254w cm
JBO1122
When the moon is full on a cold winter night, the snow-cast glow from the moon appears with a cool Indigo blue hue as light and shadow mix and the depth of field shrinks. As one of my most challenging paintings to date, I tried to keep a loose, impressionistic feel to the sky and snow while capturing the details of the bison and wolves as they moved “Under a Wolf Moon” with their warm breath breaking into the cold air and deep powder.
In 2011 I was commissioned by the Yellowstone Club in Big Sky, Montana to create a signature painting for the lobby of the Warren Miller Lodge, the result was a 72 by 168 inch canvas appropriately titled “Cold Air, Deep Powder.” The two year research for this painting led to a long love affair with the American Bison.
As is so often with milestone paintings, “Under a Wolf Moon” has been marinating in my mind for nearly a decade. It is thought that this first full moon after January 1st, came to be known as the ‘wolf moon' because wolves were more likely to be heard howling at this time. Wolves are masters at picking up any signs of weakness and a thick blanket of snow on the ground generally makes it easier for them to catch their prey. While these massive bulls have seemingly not been slowed down by the deep drifts and are carving the way for the rest of the herd, the wolves are strategically staying on the high ground as they follow the herd, ever vigilant for the opportunity to move in.
