‘Pet Projects’ On Parade At Village Arts!

Submitted by Carol A. Clark
on May 15, 2025
- 7:53 am

Some of the more than 40 pieces of original artwork on display in the ‘Pet Projects’ Exhibit at Village Arts, 216 DP Road. Courtesy photo

By KEN NEBEL
Village Arts

The “Pet Projects” Exhibit is on display through June 27 at Village Arts with more than 40 pieces of original artwork that highlight both the animal companions and the pet projects that artists hold most dear.

Artists were asked what takes all their devotion, and anyone who walks in the door can see the passion and joy behind each piece.

Artwork for this exhibition spans interests of all sorts with a definite emphasis on the creature comforts that grow from our deep relationships with our animal friends. Artists marked particularly fond moments like Bernadette Lauritzen’s “Adoption Day” photograph, Sue Ellen Hains’ “Buddies” collage, Lydia Marshall’s “Afternoon Nap” drawing, and Mary Jo Kelly’s “Puppy Love” oil painting. Other artists remembered their pets with special portraits like Karen Trythall’s oil of “Shi on a Log”, and Charlotte Lehman’s “Schtinky Stein Einztein” mixed media piece.

Katy Korkos’ “Sophie in her Studio” spans themes by combining the artist’s passions, happy spaces, and her best buddy. Similarly, mixed media artist Asia Ginn invites viewers to share her passion for pollinators by spreading seeds from the community seed library to support bees and create beautiful spaces.

Bead artist Ann Greene exemplifies several artists who have returned to the same fascinating subjects over time as she creates a series bridging between her father’s art and her own work. Mixed media collage work by Jacci Gruninger takes the time to look inward, while Gloria Sharp’s colorful batiks practically leap off the wall in excitement! Look carefully at “Fran Stovall’s “6 Tulips” to catch sight of the cat staring quietly back at you, or be surprised by the bird watcher in Ted Greer’s photograph.

Artists inspirations are particularly fun to explore in this exhibit.

Pet portrait painter Susanne Egan’s inspiration was close at hand with her dogs “Daisy Mae” and “Lukie”, and Nichole Morrow’s “ Mini NM” looks like inspiration drawn from the front doorstep. Melissa Montoya went further afield in her “stable” relationships with her goats and horses, and fiber artists Nancy Cope and Helena Whyte took their inspiration from across the world and throughout history

Whether you’re like Barbara Lake with her quilt entitled “This house is owned and operated solely for the comfort and convenience of the dog”, or just enjoy seeing what makes an artist thrive, this show is sure to connect with any viewer. This exhibit is particularly notable for the number of artists new to presenting their work and the number of young artists with work on display, so make sure to come and show your love by voting for a favorite!

About Village Arts:

Village Arts at 216 DP Road is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, and by appointment. The gallery space is always open to artists of all experience levels and ages, and a list of themes for upcoming exhibits, along with general information about Village Arts can be found at www.villageartsframing.com or by calling 505.661.2526.