Pictured is Birdie, a cat that is currently available for adoption at Chautauqua County Humane Society.

JAMESTOWN – The Chautauqua County Humane Society (CCHS) invites the community to the opening of its gallery exhibit entitled: “Art, Animals, and Connection”, on Friday, Sept. 12 from 6-8 p.m at Kayco Gallery, suite 12, 20 West Third Street in Jamestown.

The work focuses on the creative spirit of volunteers, staff, and the animals of the CCHS. The exhibit features art by Kaycee Colburn, Kelly Johnson, Hailey King, Cathy Panebianco, Zoe Spencer, and animals from the CCHS.

Kaycee Colburn, owner of Kayco and curator of “Art, Animals, and Connection” describes the show, “Viewers can anticipate art that is unique and moving. The exhibit features photography, collage, weaving, traditional Seneca art and of course, we think most importantly acrylic paintings done by the pets here at CCHS.”

Colburn says the concept for the show was a collaborative effort. “The show title was made by CCHS Executive Director Jane Babinsky and came from our idea to showcase our mutual love for animals and the work that we do, acknowledging that the perspective of the community is important and building a stronger relationship and trust within that community is paramount. Each artist works with the animals at CCHS and has their own heartwarming story that shows their love and perspective of life at the shelter. There will be an adoptable pet artist on hand for the artist talk on opening night,” she said.

Colburn says her art brings a deeper message. “As a Seneca artist I also acknowledge the negative stereotypes and ultimate lie that Natives are abusive or uncaring of animals, the shelter acknowledges its darker times of being a kill shelter. We both seek to dismantle these negative thoughts and show the community who we truly are, caring individuals with a big heart for animals and an even bigger heart for rescue,” she said.

CCHS Executive Director Jane Babinsky invites the community to come to “Art, Animals, & Connection.” “We hope that visitors will perceive CCHS and its animals in a new light and see how important our companion animals are to our overall health. Art is something that can connect animal and human souls,” she said.

There will be a pair of artist workshops hosted by Kaycee Colburn at Kayco on Sept. 19 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. “The workshops will allow pet lovers to enjoy creating art and learning from the best local adoptable artists with four paws and fur! Limited spaces mean a relaxed and fun environment for all,” said Colburn.

Registration is open now for those workshops at Chqhumane.org.

Art, Animals, and Connection” is made possible by a generous grant from Art Services Inc. and Kayco Galleries.

The Chautauqua County Humane Society is a 501c3 not for profit organization serving Chautauqua County since 1905. The Mission of the Chautauqua County Humane Society is to empower the community to improve the lives of animals.