Artists have been lining up to submit a stimulating range of work to the Black Sheep Animal Sanctuary Art Auction, which will kick off on the evening of 3rd June at Wellington's Thistle Hall Gallery. Organiser Kate Waghorn is excited by the generosity of the art community, and the diversity of art donated. "There's a piece for everyone who loves original art - for all preferences and all budgets. We just picked up a lovely portrait by local artist and tattoo designer Jennifer Murphy, and some exquisite paintings of birdlife by Ernest Papps."
Wellingtonians can take the chance to view the art works at Thistle Hall from 29 May to 3 June. A range of hand-crafted vegan pies and gourmet baked treats will also be on sale - there'll be something for all tastes, in all senses. The auction will feature works by over 100 established and emerging local and international artists including Kerry Ann Lee, Rose Marie Salmon, and Neil Johnstone. All have submitted art to support the Black Sheep Animal Sanctuary, which rescues abandoned and abused animals. The show is mixed media, with an adventurous range of pieces exploring the themes of animals, the environment, animal rights, feminism, intersectionality and nature. Buyers are invited to nibble on animal-friendly finger food, kindly donated by Angel Food, the Wellington Chocolate Factory, La Boca Loca, and Whittaker's. Aucklander Julie Gunn, the former radio host of Animal Rights and Wrongs, will MC the event.
Christchurch artist Lynda Bell is delighted to support the charity event. "I feel like the Black Sheep Animal Sanctuary is making a big and positive difference in the world, taking negative situations (animal neglect and abuse) and turning them into positive situations by giving animals care and a loving home. Equally importantly they believe in sharing this with others and educating people in animal rights and welfare. My mission as an artist is to inspire people to see what kindness and love looks like and to remind my viewers of their connection to animals and I feel that this is similar to the sanctuary's mission".
The Black Sheep Animal Sanctuary was founded in late 2009, and cares for over 180 mostly ex-farm animals - pigs, chickens, roosters, horses, sheep, cows, geese, ducks and goats. This is an evening where everyone gets the chance to help with animal rescue. While you may not be able to adopt an animal yourself, you can take home a beautiful animal-themed artwork that supports the cause.