A pop-up art event is giving pet owners the chance to get a cool – and very reasonably priced — portrait of their four-legged friend.
The ‘Pet Portrait Fundraiser’ hosted at Meccanica by Cressey Development Group is part of the Revolving Door series of art events aimed at cultivating a sense of community and culture in Southeast False Creek.
A great pet portrait courtesy of Jenna at furportraits.com
Proceeds of the event, which includes a pet apparel sale, door prizes and a silent auction, support Make and Break Arts Foundation, the BC SPCA and The North Shore Animal Rescue.
Ben Samson and Kyle Rurak of Benjamin Samson Photography will be taking the pet portraits, with a suggested donation of just $10. It’s recommended that you reserve your booking in advance by calling 604-999-6177.
Pet owners are encouraged to bring along their pet’s favourite accessory or toy so they’ll be picture perfect for the shoot.
A great pet portrait courtesy of Jenna at furportraits.com
There’s also an art show featuring pet-themed art from kids three to 13 years old, from the MAB Art Studio & Boutique Gallery.
Bonus: Pet owners can purchase 2 hours of home cleaning from Handybook for $25, with $5 going to the BC SPCA (Book now).
Vancity Buzz chatted with organizer and local artist Monika Blichar, who regularly turns her dogs’ adventures into pet-loving art.
What should pet owners expect from the day?
Pet owners will have a great opportunity to pamper their pet while they engage with other dog lovers, pet service providers and browse pet-centric artwork created by over 50 kids in the Sizzlin’ Studio Summer Art Camp. Our goal is to create a meaningful and pet-friendly event that will leave our participants and guests feeling a sense of community for both humans and pets who share this city and province!
We are also raising funds for two animal rescue charities and an arts foundation in order to continue to support these kinds of innovative initiatives as well as for the care of animals who truly need our help. We hope that via this event and ones like it in the future, we can demonstrate unity, teamwork, and make positive contributions to our furry friends through creativity and imagination.
Monika and her wee man Gianni
Why are you holding this fundraiser on behalf of an animal charity?
In my professional life, I am an Educator, Arts Coordinator and Artist. In my personal life, I have been blessed enough to have some amazing pets to love. I believe that pets can do wonderful things for people including helping with stress management, teaching responsibility, and of course, showing affection and love. I like to support all sorts of initiatives and regularly contribute to various charities in the community.
I also found that the value of creating a kids program this summer that would tie into an art show while supporting animals would be important for our students and an opportunity to learn about pet care, creative connections, and community building.
And here are some tips from Monika about how to prep your pet for the photo shoot:
- Dress the part – I recommend brining an accessory or two to add some of your pet’s personality to the photo
- Rein control – While we encourage our furry friends to roam free for their close up, a leash can come in handy to the perfect your pet’s pose
- Practice makes perfect – It’s important to feel comfortable in front of the camera, if your pet is shy, be sure to get them ready for their big day by increasing walks and interaction leading up to the event
- And of course, don’t forget to bring some treats to tell your pet they did a great job in front of the camera!
Event details:
When: Friday, September 19, 4 to 10 p.m.
Where: Meccanica, 102 East 1st Avenue.
Entry: Free, portraits by donation (suggested $10 minimum)
A great pet portrait courtesy of Jenna at furportraits.com
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