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Erie Zoo hosts animal art show Saturday, SundayNov 17, 2012 (Erie Times-News - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- Most Erie Zoo visitors have a favorite attraction they just have to see. Zoogoers this weekend will have an opportunity to purchase a special art item created by their favorite animal. The Erie Zoo, 423 W. 38th St., will host its animal art show and sale today from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. on the stage at the zoo's activity center. Visitors can view and purchase paintings, matted prints, ornaments, wood boxes, ceramic pieces, bookmarks and key chains painted by zoo animals. "The response from the community has been amazing," said Scott Mitchell, the zoo's chief executive. Zoo officials began the animal art sale in 2006. "We had seen from other zoos that had done similar things, but not on this scale," Mitchell said. "Our animal care staff has really taken an interest in this. It's a way to interact with the animals and have some fun. It's become almost a year-round process." More than 30 different Erie Zoo animals have painted show items, Mitchell said. "We try and add new things every year," he said. Travel coffee mugs displaying animal art prints are a new show item this weekend. Cost of paintings range from $10 to $60, depending on the size. Mitchell said there will be animal painting demonstrations both days. Proceeds are used to support Erie Zoo animal enrichment programs and conservation programs for animals in the wild. Mitchell said the zoo's 2011 art show raised about $5,000. Zoo officials have raised about $10,000 for the programs through animal art sales since 2006. Entry to the animal art show is included with zoo admission. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for senior citizens, and $4 for children ages 2-12. Admission is free for children under 2 and zoo members. RON LEONARDI can be reached at 870-1680 or by e-mail. ___ (c)2012 the Erie Times-News (Erie, Pa.) Visit the Erie Times-News (Erie, Pa.) at www.GoErie.com Distributed by MCT Information Services |