Jeb is a zookeeper.  He loves his job!

A Journey of Art and Soul for the Earth

by Rama the Elephant and Calley O'Neill

As one of a great team, Jeb Barsh is a highly dedicated keeper who loves his work today more than ever.  He worked in the elephant barn for years before moving in 2012 to the African Savanna Exhibit.  Creative, quick witted and passionate about saving endangered species, Jeb has worked with animals in one way or another since childhood. He is a husband and father and sees the similarities between human relations and relating to animals.  Caring is caring.  Here’s what Jeb has to say about his relationship with Rama.

Rama is a remarkable animal, and it has been a great pleasure to work with him.  I am his greatest fan and am honored to have come to know him as a partner.  His utter abandon and cooperation inspire those that witness him work.  He brightens upon the sight of us.   He has become a successful artist, though art has no function for him.  We choreograph and he cooperates.   He thrusts himself toward the outcome, in faith, so it seems to me, and his paint explodes onto the canvas – a dance.  I search for purpose for Rama.  We are human and elephant engaged in a joyous transfer of energy that has unexpectedly produced a unique body of work.  From the brink of extinction, he joins trunk to hand to canvas to you – to inspire all children to act upon their innate instinct to nurture each other and all the creatures of this planet.

JEB BARSH

Oregon Zookeeper

RAMA: AMBASSADOR FOR THE ENDANGERED ONES

Speaking Passionately on Behalf of Those who Cannot Speak

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