DInnertime (Duchess), A Gratitude Painting

"Dinnertime (Duchess)," A Gratitude Painting, 6" x 8", done in acrylics on a museum quality panel, $329 to the first buyer to ask "pretty please." As with all other Gratitude Paintings, proceeds from the sale of Duchess's portrait will benefit animal welfare groups - please continue reading for more details.

Duchess hailed from the no-kill group Animal Aid Societyin Virginia, a group I got to know through a Dog a Day collector.   She was a long term resident - and a favoriite- at the shelter. She survived two surgeries (to reduce her hip pain) before developing an inoperable tumor near her heart. She was buried at the shelter.   This is how the volunteers remember her - Duchess loved to carry her food bowl around. It is my honor to add her painting to the Gratitude Project and my portfolio.   The Gratitude Project, for those of you who are new to Painting a Dog a Day, is a series of paintings starring once homeless pets. Proceeds from the sales of these pieces are donated back to the host groups.   You are invited to view - and shop from - the Gratitude Series here. And I welcome introductions to groups you have personally worked with and can endorse.   I encourage support of your own local shelters and rescues through donations of linens, pet toys, cleaning products and old newspapers. Some groups need help with maintaining their websites or photographing the animals available for adoption or grooming/bathing those in their care. There's so many ways to make a difference, and I know they will love hearing from you!   Now I'm off to rustle up some dinner for my own family!! Thanks for following along, Kim ksantini@turtledovedesigns.com

My little studio muse Mona Lisa was once homeless herself.   Philanthropy   I kid you not - I get daily requests to donate art. I would love to help everyone out, but were I to give to all who asked, it would take me years just to create the paintings. I do, however, think that giving back is a huge priority. That is why philanthropy is a big part of my business plan. I donate 10% of my gross sales to animal welfare. My family and I volunteer at our local animal shelter. I volunteer within my community and local schools. I provide free consulting to a number of local groups I've had a long relationship with. I have a select number of animal rescues I partner with on special programs. So thank you for thinking highly enough of my work that you would like to include it in your fundraiser. However, I will respectfully decline participating and wish you the best of luck!