Blackbird Studios and local photographer Mike Korn join forces to help local animal charities...

Photographer Mike Korn

With so many pets abandoned by their owners due to the economic downturn it is no surprise that people are coming together to assist our furry friends find new and caring homes. Local photographer and friend Mike Korn has taken the cause full force and has teamed up with the crew at Blackbird Studios for this amazing cause. I invited Mike to guest blog about his latest project. 

Further Our Furry Friends
By Mike Korn

Over the past few years as I began to immerse myself in the local arts scene, I became particularly attracted to the group exhibitions hosted by Blackbird Studios. In addition to its warm family-like atmosphere and terrific shows, Blackbird seemed to be one of the only galleries always looking to help the otherwise less fortunate by way of art. One such event was Japan'd Aid, held in April 2011 to raise money for earthquake/tsunami victims. So, with my never-ending desire to improve animal welfare coupled with my passion for the arts and everything local, I approached Blackbird's Owner and Art Director Gina Quaranto with an idea – a group art show benefiting local rescues. And to those who know her, Gina is also one to help the animals. So without hesitation, she was immediately on board, as was friend, fellow animal lover and artist Charles Christians.

Together the three of us brainstormed the details, first selecting the organizations we wanted to support. Foreclosed Upon Pets, Inc. (whose name says it all) was immediately chosen because as we all know; foreclosure is an issue specifically affecting our area. And because of the great work done by the folks at The Animal Foundation, we wanted to invite them as well. Choosing the organizations from so many was by far the most difficult part; but we knew it needed to be done, and quickly - there was a lot of work ahead of us.

Over the past few months, Charles, Gina, and I have been spending much of our time recruiting local artists, sponsors, vendors and entertainment in hopes of making the event as successful as possible. And I gotta add that although the development process has been somewhat overwhelming, it’s really been a great ride so far – I’ve met so many people – artists, businesses owners, and such whom either I’ve approached or who have contacted me asking to participate. The response has been outstanding. We’ve even received support from some names of local notoriety.

So, with everything coming together better than expected, I’m happy to announce that on Saturday May 19th, 2012 Blackbird Studios will be hosting “Further Our Furry Friends” – a group art show and benefit supporting Foreclosed Upon Pets, Inc. and The Animal Foundation. The event is scheduled to begin at 6PM and admission is free – complete with a ton of art, awesome raffle prizes, live music and special guests. This is a terrific opportunity to support local animal rescues, local art, and local businesses all at one. We're hoping for a great turnout, and with the events initial feedback and depending on its success, there’s talk of “Further Our Furry Friends” possibly going annual. So please, come out for what promises to be a wonderful night!

For more information about Blackbird Studios

http://blackbirdstudioslv.com/

For more information about Photographer Mike Korn
http://www.mike-korn.com/

For more information about the event
http://www.facebook.com/groups/158381280945847/

Everyone is an artist!

Nevada Public Radio

For more information on the Cultural Arts in Las Vegas please visit Nevada Public Radio. NPR has detailed listings of many cultural and civic events hosted by area non-profits click on this linkhttp://www.knpr.org/common/psa/listNEW.cfm and if you are planning an event in the next few months, be sure to get your free listing in Nevada Public Radio's Desert Companion magazine by submitting the information here at http://www.knpr.org/culture/eventaddnew.cfm

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