Local Spotlight: Paws on Parade, Benefitting the LA/SPCA The LA/SPCA has launched a new public art display, Paws on Parade, that can be seen throughout New Orleans and surrounding areas. Paws on Parade raises awareness for animal welfare in the region, supports the art community, and beautifies the area. Using the iconic symbol of New Orleans' favorite holiday, the Mardi Gras Bead Dog®, the parade will be rolling through September 2012. What is a Mardi Gras Bead Dog®? A tradition among generations of New Orleanians, children create Bead Dogs from discarded Mardi Gras throws. A few twists and turns transform a necklace of beads into a fun trinket to enjoy. Haydel’s Bakery adopted the Mardi Gras Bead Dog® as their mascot and has graciously donated the sculpture’s mold to promote the LA/SPCA’s mission. A call out for artists to participate went out in 2010. The LA/SPCA received over 100 sketches from amateurs and professionals from across the region interested in participating in this unique public art project. Then the sponsors perused the sketches and chose the one that represented them most, or they enlisted their favorite artist to design something out of this world.
Artist Ally Burguieres Painting a Bead Dog®.
How can you see and enjoy the Mardi Gras Bead Dogs®? The best and easiest way to enjoy this unique artwork display is to go to la-spca.org and click on the Paws on Parade Driving Tour link. This is a comprehensive list of all of the displays and where they are located. You can find a map as well that will help narrow down your search for your favorite pooch. If you are interested in bringing one of these sculptures home, you can bid on your favorite at the Paws on Parade Auction. The Paws on Parade Auction will take place on September 27th, 2012 in conjunction with the LA/SPCA's annual Howling Success Patron Party and Gala. Each piece's starting bid will be $2,000. The value of each piece is priceless as these are one of a kind creations by each artist. You can check out the dogs available for auction on la-spca.org. Page 20
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