The saddest story in the world: Ivan the gorilla, a prisoner of humans, learned to “speak” through painting in captivity

The remarkable tale of Ivan the gorilla, immortalized in Disney’s film “The One and Only Ivan,” unfolds as a poignant account of his 27-year captivity. During this time, Ivan discovered an extraordinary means of expression through painting. Directed by Allison Shearmur, the movie adapts Katherine Applegate’s book, providing a fictionalized perspective from the animals’ point of view.

Originally housed in a modest zoo at the B&I Circus Store in Tacoma, Washington, Ivan’s story mirrors the changing public attitudes toward captive animals during the mid-1970s. Despite efforts to relocate most animals by 1980, Ivan, a male gorilla, faced challenges in finding a new home. Ultimately, he spent years alone in a cramped concrete enclosure, the last remaining attraction.

The closure of the B&I Circus Store in 1992 coincided with renewed public interest in Ivan’s plight, sparked by the documentary “The Urban Gorilla.” Yet, Ivan’s solitary existence persisted until steps were taken to enhance his living conditions.

Ivan’s early life involved capture alongside his sister, Burma, in the Zaire jungle. Initially raised by the Johnston family, Ivan’s size and behavior rendered him unsuitable as a household pet. Consequently, he was relocated to the B&I Circus Store, where he caused significant damage before settling into his enclosure.

Numerous efforts were made to enrich Ivan’s life, including painting exercises facilitated by local anthropologist Bob Daugherty. Despite these endeavors, Ivan’s transition to socializing with other gorillas was gradual, given his prolonged isolation.

While the film depicts Ivan eventually integrating with female gorillas, his initial reluctance to leave his cage and his enduring bond with caregivers remained pivotal aspects of his reality. His passing in 2012 marked the end of a unique and challenging life, yet his longevity in captivity remains remarkable.

Sources: ivanthegorilla.org; en.wikipedia.org; theoneandonlyivan.com; readingrockets.org; belovedivan.org; youtube.com;

Image Source: shutterstock.com