Shawnee exhibit raises food for abandoned animals

This care and compassion was made visually apparent by the 124 artworks created by 102 Oklahoma artists for the exhibit.

"We were absolutely overwhelmed by the participation in this exhibit," said Donna Merkt, MGMoA curator of education. "There were more participating artists and included artworks than we have yet seen in the regional exhibit."

The regional exhibit was open to any artist, of any age, or any skill level. "We accepted art from everyone who wanted to help-even artistic animals!" exclaimed Merkt.

Each year, the museum hosts a regional exhibition that benefits a local charity. The beneficiary of this year's exhibit was Saving Pets at Risk, a local charity that helps abandoned cats and dogs.

During the run of the exhibit, the museum waived admission for any visitor bringing a pet product to donate to SPAR.

The numbers were: 301 pounds of dry dog food, 108 pounds of dry cat food, 39 cans of dog food, 86 cans of cat food, 124 pounds of kitty litter, 29 containers of dog treats, 26 leashes and collars, 26 dog and cat toys, 18 food bowls, 8 beds and bedding, and 14 miscellaneous pet care products.