Auction Features Art Inspired by Nature’s Beauty

Proceeds From Annual Event Help Support Conservation Mission

INDIANAPOLIS, 2012-08-30 — /travelprnews.com/ — See the works of a penguin Picasso, a walrus Warhol or an elephant Escher. During the the Naturally Inspired Silent Auction and Reception presented by The Great Frame Up of Indianapolis guests can peer through the eyes of an artist — whether she’s a human or an 8,000 pound elephant — and even take home art inspired by the natural world. The annual event is 5:30-7:30pm August 23 at the Hulman Riverhouse at White River Gardens.

This spring, the Indianapolis Zoo invited a group of juried artists to paint “en plein air” (outdoors) and interpret their vision of the Zoo and Gardens during the Naturally Inspired Paint Out. The original artworks have been on display this summer in the Schaefer Rotunda at the Gardens and guests now have the chance to purchase the creations of the 15 human artists as well as some from artistically inclined animals.

Each of the more than 20 works will be sold to the highest bidder during the silent auction, with the proceeds supporting the Zoo’s conservation mission. Guests will also enjoy an evening of hors d’oeuvres and wine as they visit with the talented artists who created these beautiful pieces.

Guests will meet Rob Schippnick, who left a career in auto racing to raise his two children. He said he sees himself much like the seahorse he painted; “The father is the parent who cares for and raises the eggs.” Another artist at the reception will be Hector Del Campo, a local professor who has been a part of the Naturally Inspired Paint Out for several years. His focus for this year’s Paint Out was elephants, and he said he enjoys working with spray paints because of “the contemporary aspect and lush colors with sweet drying time!”

Not only can guests see and purchase paintings inspired by Zoo animals, they also have the chance to meet some. The Zoo’s two Kangal shepherd dogs will greet guests in the Rotunda, helping to raise additional awareness of the conservation programs supported by this event.

Tickets for the silent auction and reception are $10 each for Zoo members and their guests and $25 for non-members. Reservations are available by calling (317) 630-2046.

 

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About the Indianapolis Zoo
Located in White River State Park downtown, the Indianapolis Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Association of Museums as a zoo, aquarium and botanical garden. The Indianapolis Zoo empowers people and communities, both locally and globally, to advance animal conservation.

Contact:

Carla Knapp

Public Relations Specialist

317-630-3257

cknapp@indyzoo.com