STAY CONNECTED

**PHOTO OPPORTUNITY**

November 13, 2012

Media Preview: Zoo’s animal artists practice their painting 

Gigi Allianic, Caileigh Robertson
206.548.2550 | woodlandparkzoopr@zoo.org

A pair of Humboldt penguins practice painting for the annual Holiday Silent Auction held at Woodland Park Zoo. Paintings created by the two penguins and artwork by an Asian elephant will be available for purchase in the zoo’s Education Center Friday, November 16. Entrance to the auction is free with zoo admission.   

Photo Credit: Ryan Hawk/Woodland Park Zoo

WHAT

Woodland Park Zoo’s animal artists are brushing up on their painting pastimes. A pair of the zoo’s Humboldt penguins and Chai, an Asian elephant, will be creating colorful, original paintings that will be available for purchase during the annual Holiday Silent Auction held at the zoo Friday, November 16.

Press is invited to the animal painting sessions Wednesday, November 14, 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Woodland Park Zoo.

The penguins’ artwork will be matted and framed and will feature artistic impressions of their unique, webbed feet. Chai, 33, is known for her kaleidoscope paintings showcasing delicate brush strokes and vibrant colors. These instant classics will be guaranteed conversation pieces, perfect for your home or office.

Proceeds from the paintings and other Holiday Silent Auction items support the Puget Sound - American Association of Zoo Keepers, a 501(c)(3) non-profit volunteer organization composed of professional zoo keepers, employed by Woodland Park Zoo, and other people interested in promoting professional animal care and conservation worldwide. Entrance to the PS-AAZK Holiday Silent Auction is free with zoo admission.

WHEN

Painting session for the press: Wednesday, November 14

1:30 p.m.: Elephants                2:00 p.m.: Penguins
Holiday Silent Auction: Friday, November 16
12:00-2:00 p.m.: Bake/lunch sale, auction preview and guaranteed bids
4:00-8:00 p.m.: Silent auction and bake/dinner sale

WHERE

Woodland Park Zoo’s elephant barn and behind the scenes at Humboldt penguin exhibit.  Meet PR staff at the West Entrance on Phinney Ave. N. between N. 55^th & N. 56^th Sts. Park in the inner north lot off N. 59^th St. & Phinney Ave. N. where offices are located. 

INFO

Painting for the animals is part of the zoo’s excellent animal care program to help enrich the lives of the zoo’s animals and keep animals mentally stimulated.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, award-winning Woodland Park Zoo is famed for pioneering naturalistic exhibits and setting international standards for zoos in animal care, conservation and education programs. Woodland Park Zoo is helping to save animals and their habitats in the Pacific Northwest and around the world. By inspiring people to care and act, Woodland Park Zoo is making a difference in our planet’s future. For more information, visit www.zoo.org.

### 

Woodland Park Zoo saves animals and their habitats through conservation leadership and engaging experiences, inspiring people to learn, care and act.