Joy Adamson Biography
January 20, 1910 – January 3, 1980
Joy Adamson was a naturalist, artist, and author whose work centered on capturing the essence of African wildlife and its inhabitants. Her artistic talent flourished in detailed paintings and drawings of flora and people, with many pieces now housed in the National Museum of Kenya. Adamson was also a dedicated conservationist, best exemplified by her work with Elsa the lioness. This endeavor, chronicled in her most famous book, highlighted her commitment to allowing wild animals to remain in their natural habitat. Her writing and art combine to form a powerful depiction of her life and work in Africa.






