Arts, Animals, and Edibles benefit
The second annual Arts, Animals, and Edibles went to the dogs — and the cats. Well, the proceeds anyway. On Aug. 20, animal lovers gathered at the Artist Retreat Center to eat, drink, and bid on a variety of locally made art.
The event, which was held by the Bella Vista Animal Shelter, featured pieces made by artists from Northwest Arkansas in all types of media.
A painting of Crystal Bridges hung above intricate silver earrings. A handmade wood-andiron bench served as a resting place for guests. A framed calligraphy quote sat adjacent to a fictional novel about life in the Ozarks. Pottery and photo prints covered tables.
The thing that all the art had in common? Each piece was donated by an artist who has a heart for animals.
Animal Shelter director Robin Heis said she came in contact with the artists through the shelter's board members and a little help from Facebook.
Even the hors d'oeuvres were made with love by a local artist.
Chef Peter Kohr, of Rogers, harvested the fruits and vegetables straight from his personal garden and prepared them into mouth-watering delights.
His garlic teriyaki New York strip steak in a spicy peanut sauce was a big hit with guests as well as his bacon and cheese pie – which he likened to pimiento dip in a pie crust.
Proceeds from the event will be used to purchase high-demand necessities such as kitty litter and quality dog food.
“Some of the dogs we take in will have pre-existing medical issues or sensitive stomachs that can be irritated,” Heis explained.
The money will also help pay for spaying or neutering and any unforeseen medical expenses.
For instance, the shelter currently has a dog that came in with mange. She needs medication daily and special baths twice a week, Heis said.
The Bella Vista Animal Shelter is located at 32 Bella Vista Way, near the Arkansas-Missouri border. It is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
The facility operates solely on donations of money, supplies, and time from the surrounding community.