"Protection or Abuse I" by Diana Saffo Bono $500

Artist Statement: "When I became involved with the Alliance a few years ago, I realized I needed to become better educated regarding the plight of animals in our state. The more I learned, the more heartsick I became, thinking of the abuse we inflict on animals, large or small. For some it happens due to apathy or ignorance, for others it is unabashed cruelty, but for many I think we simply make the wrong choices. Being part of this exhibit allows me to use my artistic abilities to encourage others to do a bit of soul searching while becoming more aware of what is happening all around us. It is especially hard in this economic environment to look past our own circumstances. These are stressful times for many. But even in these difficult times, and perhaps because of them, we need to think about the choices we make. We choose our friends, our doctors, our churches. We choose more carefully how and when we spend our money. We choose our legislators. Perhaps now is the time that we, the people of Missouri, choose to make our voices heard? But we must be aware of what is happening in our state in order to effect change. In our state we allow the importing of exotic animals. Are most of us even aware that this is happening and to such an extent? In our state we still have dog fights. Although we are aware of this abhorrent practice, why does this continue? By now, most of us, as well as the rest of the country, are aware of Missouri's ranking and involvement with Puppy Mills. Why does this continue? Read more. Become more aware. Contact your legislators. Let them know that these issues need to be addressed; this mistreatment and abuse of animals does matter. These are important issues and we want change. All animals are deserving of compassionate care and respect. In my opinion, how we treat animals reflects on who we are as human beings and how we value all life. Do we choose protection through our legislation for animals exotic or otherwise, or do we allow the many faces of abuse to continue? By no choice and no voice, we support what is." Created in Acrylic & Collage by Artist Diana Saffo Bono of Lake St Louis, MO