Throughout the ages, animals have always been a meaningful and recurrent subject in art. This February, the Ocean City Center for the Arts will feature exhibits and events dedicated to the prevailing theme of Animals in Art. In addition to animal themed artwork, several fundraisers will take place throughout the month to benefit the Worcester County Humane Society, a local no-kill shelter.

In the Thaler Gallery, see “Animals in Art” as members and local artists depict the theme through a variety of media. A portion of all sales from the exhibit will benefit the WCHS. Artist in Residence Lynne Lockhart, signature member of the Society of Animal Painters, will showcase animal paintings in Studio E. The Spotlight Gallery will feature photography by Art League member Sara Timmons. The exhibits kick off Friday February 6 with the First Friday Opening Reception from 5-7PM. Meet the artists, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments and see the new artwork. The Humane Society will also be available to distribute information on the valuable resources they provide.

Join us Saturday February 7 from 11AM-4PM for Pet Portraits by Spotlight Artist Sara Timmons and caricature artist Jim Rehak. Create a lasting memory with your furry family and raise money for animals in need. A portion of all sales will benefit the WCHS. Bring your kids, dogs, cats, and other agreeable pets for a photography session or quick caricature. Appointments every 15 minutes, walk-ins welcome. Please call 410-524-9433 to reserve your spot.

Attend an animal themed class this month with Brushes and Bubbly (February 11) or Sip and Ceramics (February 18). Enjoy a stress-free art experience and unleash your inner artist with all while raising money for the WCHS. Our instructor will guide you step-by-step as you create a masterpiece- no experience necessary. Bring your friends, a snack, and an adult beverage and we supply the rest!

Learn the basics of anatomy and expression in the Dog and Cat in Art with artist in residence Lynne Lockhart February 18-19! Whether you want to try your hand at portraiture or include animals as part of the landscape this class will help improve your skills. All levels, beginners encouraged. Bring your favorite medium: acrylics, oils, watercolor, or pastel.

Exhibits run Feb 2-28. Galleries open daily, Monday-Friday 9-4PM and Saturday-Sunday 11-4PM, with extended hours for special classes and events. For more information or to register, contact the Art League at 410-524-9433 or visit www.ArtLeagueofOceanCity.org

**featured image by Lynn Lockhart**

The Art League of Ocean City is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing the visual arts to the community through education, exhibits, scholarship programs and public service projects. Financial support comes primarily through membership dues from individuals and corporate sponsors. Funding is also provided by the Worcester County Arts Council, Maryland State Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts, organizations dedicated to cultivating a vibrant cultural community where the arts thrive. The Art League of Ocean City is grateful to the Town of Ocean City for partnering to construct the Ocean City Center for the Arts. To get more information on Art League of Ocean City events or how to become a member, call 410-524-9433 or click onto the Art League of Ocean City Web site at www.artleagueofoceancity.org.