Encinitas Art Exhibition to Keep Pets and People Safe

Seventeen local artists will join paws to help the animal victims of domestic violence during the Zoonitas Extravaganza Exhibition benefiting the Animal Safehouse Program at your Rancho Coastal Humane Society.  An opening reception will be held on Saturday, July 26 from 1 PM to 4 PM at the Encinitas Library Gallery at 540 Cornish Drive, Encinitas.

“Zoonitas artists are proud to be a part of the vibrant art scene in Encinitas,” according to Cheryl Ehlers, a local artist and curator of the 2014 Zoonitas art exhibition.  “Encinitas is home to a diverse population of talented artists.  During the opening reception our guests will experience all forms of artistic expression.”

Guests at the reception will have the rare opportunity to step into “virtual studios.”  Each artist will have one hour to complete an original handmade work of art.  Participants include wildlife and landscape artist Gary Johnson, muralist and fine art instructor Linda Luisi, and Joan Hanson, a nature artist, instructor, and book illustrator. During a silent auction afterward the guests with the highest bids will take home the original works of art “fresh off the easel.”

“We’re so honored that these local artists have chosen Rancho Coastal Humane Society’s Animal Safehouse Program as the beneficiary of Zoonitas,” says Amy Heflin, Director of the program.  “Safehouse is a safety net for the pets of domestic violence victims.  When they know their pets will be safe, it allows them to escape and break the chain of violence.  Safehouse is also a lifeline for veterans, senior citizens, accident victims, and…most recently…victims of the fires.  Thank you Zoonitas!”

“All of the artists are excited,” adds Ehlers.  “We’re ready to let the fur and feathers fly!  The reception will include live music by Second Cousins, food and refreshments, the Silent Auction, and opportunities to meet the artists and discuss their work.”

For more information about Zoonitas call 760-519-1551 or log on to Zoonitas.

For more information about the Animal Safehouse Program at Rancho Coastal Humane Society visit the shelter at 389 Requeza Street in Encinitas, call 760-753-6413, or log on to sdpets.org.  You may also contact John Van Zante at 760-753-6413 x 114.