APRIL 2018 50 | Andrea Tyler Evans PUBLISHER @AndreaTEvans {publisher’s page} OPEN DOORS To say we live in a community of pet lovers is an understatement. Let’s admit it, most of us are a bit obsessed when asked if we have a furry friend at home or a favorite place to support wildlife conservation throughout the year. So much so that I have noticed another trend — local artists who are known for the incredible pet art. Here are a few that I have had the pleasure to meet this season. JULES GISSLER julesgissler.com I met Jules at the annual Shemer Art Center Furry Friends Fine Arts Festival this past year and am thrilled to see she will be back at this fun event this September. You can find her beautiful prints, giclées, cards, calendars and paintings at local shops throughout the Valley or commission her to create a masterpiece of your furry friend. Her whimsical style is magical and I cannot wait to have her do a commissioned piece for my next holiday card. JOE RAY omgpetart.com If contemporary art is more your style, I am thrilled to let you know that the incredible Joe Ray (known for his beautiful series of heart paintings) has put together a group of artists and illustrators to create a line of custom portrait and gifts for pet lovers. Check out their Instagram page to see examples of the pets that have become colorful pop art. Also unique is a line of pet angel ornaments … a sweet memento to remember a friend that has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge that also benefits Arizona Poodle Rescue. APRIL HOWLAND howlandstudios.com If your passion is supporting Arizona’s wildlife conservation programs, check out the amazing pieces created by April Howland. Her vibrant throw pillows make a dynamic focal point to any room. She created a special portrait of a Mexican gray wolf for the upcoming Dinner with Wolves benefit in support of both the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center and Defenders of Wildlife. For more info about April, check out the article by Lynette Carrington on FrontdoorsMedia.com . So the next time you are thinking about a living room refresh or updating your kiddo’s room, consider adding a custom piece or representation of your favorite animal from a local artist. I know they are all out and about at the festivals and events going on this month and throughout the year. I promise to share the one I am having created when it’s done! Andrea Animal Art

APRIL 2018 | 51 Top: Ruby, Cynthia & Harper… One of These Is Not Like the Others by Jules Gissler; Bottom Left: Schnoodle – acrylic painting by omgpetart; Bottom Right: Manitu by April Howland will be auctioned off on April 15, 2018 at dinnerwithwolves.com