Black

Marlon du Toit

Title: Black

Small: Unframed: 111cm x 138cm / Framed 143cm x 170cm 

Large: Unframed 148cm x 180cm / Framed 180cm x 212cm 

Archival Pigment Print

Limited edition of 10 prints for each size, signed by the Artist and delivered with a certificate of Authenticity.

In the heart of Laikipia, Kenya, among rugged ridges and unforgiving riverbeds, lives an animal so rare that most only dream of seeing her. A black leopard — the very embodiment of mystery and beauty. As someone with a lifelong obsession for big cats, the chance to find her in the wild was irresistible.

This landscape is harsh, testing both wildlife and those who pursue it. And yet, against all odds, it sustains one of the highest densities of leopards in Africa. On my very first afternoon, luck favored me: I found her, resting on a sun-warmed rock beside a dry riverbed. What followed were days of patient tracking, each encounter drawing me closer to the image I envisioned.

Finally, it happened. She turned toward me, her eyes locking with mine. A perfect portrait — raw, direct, undeniable. It was everything I had hoped for: not just a photograph of a leopard, but a meeting with an enigma, a fleeting glimpse into a life that so few ever witness.

Images like this do not simply happen. They are earned, through patience, persistence, respect for the wild, and a measure of fortune. This is my portrait of Laikipia’s black beauty, a memory I will treasure forever.

About Marlon, 

Marlon du Toit is an acclaimed South African wildlife photographer, respected conservationist, and leading voice in wildlife tourism. He has recently joined Scapegoat Gallery in Johannesburg, where his celebrated photography is presented alongside works by internationally acclaimed artists.

With nearly two decades of experience in adventure, Marlon is a passionate explorer, memory keeper, and expedition guide. Inspired by his father’s love for wildlife photography and driven by his own enduring connection to nature, he has carried a camera as his constant companion throughout his journey. His photography captures not only the breathtaking beauty of the wild, but also the profound relationship between people and the natural world.

Marlon’s work has reached international audiences, featured on award-winning television programs including The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, NBC’s Today Show, and The Martha Stewart Show, as well as in leading publications such as National Geographic.

Through his exclusive safari and travel experiences, Marlon shares his deep reverence for wildlife with guests in the field and a growing global audience online. By combining his expertise as an expedition guide, photographer, and conservation advocate, he creates transformative encounters with nature that leave a lasting impact.

His collaborations with global brands such as Panerai, Sony Alpha, and Swarovski Optik reflect his commitment to excellence documenting adventure.

Selected works by Marlon du Toit will be on exhibition at Scapegoat Gallery from October 2025.