Philippines:Sketches and Studies-Whale Sharks

While we were in Legaspi, we had a chance to swim with some whale sharks! We probably picked the worst day in history to see them. As soon as we chartered a boat, the clouds rolled in and it started raining.  They were more than happy to keep our money as they reassured us that there is no refunds if we don't see anything, but we will probably see something. If there are no while signs after 2 hours we could always extend the search an hour longer. Steph and I were thinking about this as we were shivering the rain water off during the hour long boat ride to a little patch of calm water protected by a peninsula. Suddenly there was some commotion on deck and our guide screamed 'shark!' We readied, and then jumped in. I laughed at the idea that we are jumping in the water after hearing that word. The water was so dark because of the clouds, and the water was murky from the abundance of plankton. I searched under water, only seeing rolling blobs of murkiness as my eyes adjusted to the darkness. Then suddenly emerging out of the darkness was a huge mouth! I kicked and lost my breath as I was trying to swim out of the way. As I was trying not to skip off the side of it and dodging its fins, I took in just how big this thing was. I couldn't see from one end to the other. It was positively a wonderful experience. So... yeah check out this piece inspired by the experience.

Comments

PEI2FEKTO said…
Holy crap!! I would of been so terrified being next to such a enormous creature!! Amazing study Barret!! More please :)
PEI2FEKTO said…
Holy crap!! I would of been so terrified being next to such a enormous creature!! Amazing study Barret!! More please :)