The Humane Society of Washington County (HSWC) is marking the end of its Centennial Celebration by partnering with North Hagerstown High School (NHHS) for a special art fundraiser. “Portraits for Paws”, a student art auction and shelter adoption event, will be held at HSWC on Saturday, November 5th from 1pm - 4pm.
More than 50 students in Mrs. Fitzpatrick’s Art I, II and III classes at NHHS will have their artwork on display and available for bidding. Using their own preferred styles and mediums, the participating students created portraits of HSWC’s adoptable animals and other pet-themed art.
“We’re thrilled that young local artists are using their talents to bring attention to the animals at HSWC,” said Noel Cordell, Director of Development and Communications. “We invite the community to attend, both to admire and bid on the incredible artwork of these students, and also to visit our adoptable animals looking for their forever homes.”
In addition to the art display and auction, NHHS students will be onsite offering children’s face painting and pet caricature drawings in exchange for a donation to HSWC. Visitors can bring a printed photo of their pet or show a photo on their cell phone to receive a caricature drawing.
Several students will also be doing live artwork at the event by painting portraits of available shelter animals.
“I believe it’s important to get our students involved in the community using what we are learning and doing in class to make a difference,” said Hailey Fitzpatrick, art teacher at NHHS. “This event is a great way to show our students what art can offer and the difference it can make. It also shows them the real-life possibilities for their art and careers as portrait artists.”
Artwork not sold at the auction will remain on display at the shelter through Saturday, November 12th and can be purchased at the “Buy It Now” price of $20.
HSWC will also offer $25 off all cat and dog adoption fees on November 5th. Adoption Center hours that day are 10am – 6pm, though the adoption floors close from noon – 1pm for the animals’ nap time.
All proceeds from the Portraits for Paws event benefit HSWC.