KNOXVILLE - Last December, Knoxville Zoo staff and her many friends mourned the passing of BiBi gorilla.  BiBi suffered an from infection and was unable to recover.  Yet, thanks to artist Cindy Billingsley, BiBi will continue to be remembered through a special collector's painting.

Artist Cindy Billingsley painted the portrait of BiBi just two weeks prior to her passing and has donated it for Knoxville Zoo to share with those who treasured visiting BiBi in Gorilla Valley.  Billingsley, a fine arts painter and sculptor, said "I was fascinated by BiBi who was right up against the glass the day I was researching art ideas at Knoxville Zoo.  After I heard of BiBi's passing, I knew this gave me the opportunity to share my experience of watching and painting BiBi.  I recognized the gorilla I had painted had meant so much to the zoo keepers and guests, and I am happy to share this portrait with them all."

The numbered prints with Billingsley's signature are available for purchase at the ZooShop for only $60.  The print is not matted and comes in a protective acid free sleeve.  Proceeds from Billingsley's portrait are being donated to Knoxville Zoo as well.  To view the portrait, visitwww.cindybillingsley.com.

"We are pleased to offer such a beautiful image of BiBi for our guests," said Lisa New, animal collections director at Knoxville Zoo.  "So many of our guests and staff loved BiBi and we want them to have the opportunity to continue their admiration for her, even though she is no longer with us.  We can't say thank you enough to Mrs. Billingsley for sharing her talent and art with us."