Marcela Salles- Nabhobindu

I am a Brazilian artist and graphic designer whose work is deeply rooted in a lifelong fascination with nature. Since childhood, I have been naturally drawn to observing the details that often go unnoticed. I study and portray the relationships that connect each species to its habitat, exploring the intricate connections between fauna and flora. I believe that every complex pattern begins with something simple—points and lines—and this idea has become the visual language of my practice through pointillism. Through these many carefully placed dots, I explore the hidden structures, colors, and textures that shape the natural world while encouraging a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation, whether through well-known or lesser-known species.

My wall sculpture of the clouded leopard reflects this approach. The piece was inspired by photographs provided by the Wildcat Conservation Centre, particularly of the clouded leopard Cinta, whose distinctive heart-shaped marking on the chest became a central reference for the sculpture. Designed as a wall piece, the sculpture incorporates its own integrated hanging system, allowing it to be displayed directly on the wall without the need for additional hardware.

The clouded leopard is classified as Vulnerable, with populations declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal wildlife trade. As part of my commitment to conservation, 25% of the sale price of this sculpture will be donated to the Clouded Leopard Working Group (CLWG), an international network of conservation partners working across mainland Asia to protect clouded leopards, Asiatic golden cats, marbled cats, and the forests they depend on. Through scientific research, community-based conservation, education, and habitat protection, the CLWG works alongside local communities to reduce threats to these elusive small wild cats and promote long-term coexistence between people and wildlife. Another 25% will be donated to the Wild Cat Conservation Centre in Australia, a specialized conservation sanctuary dedicated to threatened wild cat species. Beyond providing exceptional lifelong care for animals such as Cinta, the centre leads conservation breeding, research, education, and rewilding initiatives, helping secure the future of clouded leopards, cheetahs, fishing cats, servals, caracals, and other endangered felids.