While painting at home I would often listen to music, and one of my favourite tapes to paint to, was of the songs of the Humpback Whale set to music.  After viewing a program on the life of the humpback I was inspired to paint one.  This was unusual for me in that almost all of my works were very free flowing and open to change at any stage.
 

I felt the humpback was perfect in its own right and tried to portray it as true to life as possible.  To do justice to these creatures I located a photograph that clearly revealed their markings and proportions, and used it as a guideline.
 

Their movements I found fascinating, they were slow and laborious but also extremely graceful.  Their eyes possessed a sad-wise appearance.  It was these qualities I endeavoured to express in this painting.
 

Upon its completion I searched for a title which would convey to the public that these are wondrous, intelligent creatures which should not be taken for granted.  "Hidden Wisdom" was chosen for it seemed to ring true on all accounts.