Guest Post: Exploring South Africa through animator Glen Keane's eyes

For decades, former Disney animator Glen Keane shaped and built worlds we’re all familiar with: The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Pocahontas, Tarzan, and many, many more. Sharing the magic of the world with generations of eager hearts, young and old alike.

Earlier this year, we welcomed Glen and his wife, Linda, to Singita Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand.

Throughout his stay, he filled three sketchbooks with beautifully rendered sightings and standout experiences. Seeing Africa through his extraordinary eyes and via his talented pen reminded us of why we do what we do: to share the magic of the natural world with others.

His drawings embody the subtleties of a scene like no camera can, highlighting details through delicate gestures that capture movement.

“It’s such an interesting thing when one draws. It translates what you think you see into what you really see,” says Glen. And in a time when memories tend to be stored as photos in the annals of a smartphone, there’s a beauty and power in capturing them in more tangible ways. In something that can be opened and closed, held and passed on, stored on a shelf or bedside table, and revisited, like a sketchbook.

At every Singita property, no matter which region you're in, you'll find pencils, paper and painting kits – we know that often in the peace of your suite, surrounded by so much beauty, inspiration strikes.

So, the next time you’re with us and feel a creative calling to document your experience in words and pictures, just know it’ll live on forever, somewhere, for someone, and maybe inspire them to do the same.