If one direction in art nowadays makes sense, then it is surely wildlife art. I suffer when I see the decline of the wild virgin areas. Wildlife art can affect the future of our planet. It may have only a small effect, but it is a contribution of our natural world – without which I could not live.  
–  Carl Brenders

One of the core issues of Peter Dettling’s work has always been large predators and the way our society views them. Thus it comes to no surprise to learn that he was one of the first to photograph a wild wolf on Swiss soil in 2006. In Switzerland, wolves were shot, as were bears, lynx, and a few other animals, to extinction. Yet some have started to make a shy comeback late in the 20th Century. Passionate to share this story, Peter began working on various wolf book projects. In Switzerland he initiated a book describing the return of wolves in the Swiss Alps and Western Europe called, “ Der Wolf – ein Raubtier in unserer Nähe” which was published in April 2008. A year later,  “ Eye to eye with the wolf” was released which showcases the results of Peter’s collaboration with Günther Bloch on the wolves in Banff National Park. In 2009 Peter will release a new book with his own vivid imagery and compelling text. Peter’s new book will circumscribe his search for “true wilderness” and the importance wolves and bears have in a sound ecosystem having conducted extensive research in the region Peter grew up in (Surselva). The book will also illustrate the difficulties returning wolves and bears face in modern Switzerland embedded in thoughtful messaging about the necessity of rethinking our relationship with nature.

Bears and wolves are not only a key species in a sound ecosystem, but I also strongly believe that they play a key role in redefining our relationship with nature. If we humans can find a way to co-exist with big carnivores or omnivores, such as wolves and bears, in a densely populated area like Switzerland, then there is real hope for all conservation issues worldwide.

Believing it is important to be ecologically responsible, Peter’s goal has always been to make his business sustainable and environmentally friendly, be it in his office, out in the field or when producing cards, calendars or books. All his products are locally produced (local designers or printers). Another important step in green sustainable production is the choice of paper. All of Peter’s products are printed on sustainable, old grown forest free FSC paper. The usage of FSC certified paper is supported by a wide range of respected NGOs, including the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace.