Daniel “Mook Lion” Chapman
“Restoring the Roam,” a project for which Daniel “Mook Lion” Chapman was awarded a CAF grant, involves creating a mural depicting an extraordinary process unfolding in South Africa’s Eastern Cape—the reconnection of a wildlife corridor that has been fragmented for centuries. Once traversed by rhino, elephant, and lion, the landscape is severed by fencing, leaving these and many other species trapped and on the brink of extinction. The mural will wrap a building that sits at the gateway to the corridor and serves as the hub for anti-poaching rangers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The mural will serve as a powerful representation of the vision for the wildlife corridor—a connected landscape where iconic wildlife can thrive and roam once again in their natural habitats, without fear of being hunted. Beyond its artistic beauty, the mural will tell a story of restoration, resilience, and hope. It aims to inspire community pride, raise awareness about the importance of connectivity, and foster a deeper connection between people and animals. Through this mural, Mook envisions not only celebrating the progress made so far but also rallying collective support for the ongoing mission to heal ecosystems and create a future where both wildlife and people can flourish side by side.
Mook Lion is an arts practitioner with over thirteen years of professional industry experience. In 2019, he completed his Masters in Fine Art at the Durban University of Technology in South Africa. His practice-based research focused on street art and mural art as visual activism in Durban from 2014–2017, and the production of site-specific, socially conscious artwork in the public domain. Integral to Mook’s ideology and practice is his community-minded approach to art and his work often involves workshops and collaborations with both experienced artists and community members. By repurposing wasted urban space, Mook aims to produce art that performs a social and cultural function with his themes often responding to current political, environmental, and site-specific issues.
Photo of Mook Lion: Dave McGregor.