Painting Of ‘Donovan’ The Lion Presented To Utica Zoo

There's a new painting on display at the Utica Zoo.

A four by five foot painting of the zoo's eldest lion "Donovan" was presented to zoo officials today.

"Donovan" was painted by local artist Tom Varano from Emotion Into Art.  Varano says the painting was done "live" at an event hosted by Leadership Mohawk Valley in about 8 minutes.

The painting was donated as part of Leadership Mohawk Valley's 25th Anniversary Celebration and to commemorate World Lion Day.

Andria Heath, LMV Alumnae & former LMV Board of Directors President, and Utica Zoo Executive Director, stated: “Donovan is certainly a visitor favorite at the Utica Zoo and we couldn’t be more pleased that he was chosen to be a lasting symbol of this momentous occasion in LMV’s history. As the zoo continues to grow, Donovan’s portrait will be hung in a place of honor”