"Trash or Treasure" Artist Diana Saffo Bono

As an artist my artwork has always been a celebration of life, regardless of subject or medium. Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of seeing a newborn puppy, and watching them develop, no matter what breed or combination thereof, knows how precious and beautiful they are. Life should be treasured, and animals, especially dogs, enrich our lives in ways too many to number. As a Missourian, I am appalled that we are one of the top states perpetuating and benefitting from a situation as abhorrent as Puppy Mills. We are a throwaway society and the Puppy Mill industry is a testament to that. Awareness is the first important step. If people would do something as simple as choosing a puppy from a reputable breeder, or better yet, adopting from their neighborhood animal shelter, we can make a huge difference. As you are viewing the works entered in this show, think about what you are seeing. Ask yourself if this is just another "cause", or is it something that is worth a second thought. And, if you are about to buy a puppy for your family, please consider very carefully where you will make your purchase. Artist Diana Saffo Bono of Lake St Louis, Missouri