'Mission Pawsible' an art and animal event

Flathead Shelter Friends Inc., Flathead Spay & Neuter Task Force, Humane Society of Northwest Montana and Whitefish Theatre Co., have rallied together to host "Mission Pawsible," a valleywide art and animal event planned for summer 2010.

Following in the format of the successful "Moose on the Loose" and "The Great Bear Affair," the Mission Pawsible project will focus on one-of-a-kind artistic displays of cat and dog sculptures.

The sculptures will be transformed by local artists and displayed throughout the community prior to the gala auction next September that will benefit the four nonprofit groups.

Mission Pawsible's goals include raising money for animal shelter and rescue programs, educating people about responsible pet care and ownership and spotlighting local animal programs.

According to artist and Mission Pawsible organizer Myni Ferguson, "We also hope that the dogs and cats on display will bring a splash of color, fun and festivity to our valley."

Mission Pawsible is soliciting sponsorships for the dogs and cats.

There are several sponsorship levels for businesses and individuals.

Maps will guide the public to animals on display. Sponsors will select the sites and their decorated pets will be displayed during July and August.

There are a limited number of dogs and cats, so sponsors are encouraged to sign up now.

Artists of all media are encouraged to submit designs to Mission Pawsible. Designs will be reviewed and selected by the selection committee. More information is available online or at any of the sponsoring organizations.

The four animal forms also are on display at Northwind Shirt Co. in Whitefish.

Visit missionpawsible.org or call 862-5371, extension 222 for artist and sponsorship information.