As the California wildfires devastate homes and wildlife, the artists at Hattas Studios are helping in the only way they know how … by painting.
“While we are heart-broken seeing the effects on families and business, we are also struck by the thousands of animals displaced and injured by the fires,” says Jeanine Hattas Wilson, CEO of Hattas Studios. “So for the month of January, we are shifting our focus towards painting pets and animals in order to raise funds for the Pasadena Humane Society.”
For pet owners, experiencing a wildfire outbreak means making split-second decisions about the safety of their families and animals. While some families were able to evacuate with their pets, others were lost or separated in the chaos. Other animals have been burned, injured, or are in need of oxygen and care. This is where the Pasadena Humane Society, and other local animal shelters are making extraordinary efforts to help.
Working Together to Make a Difference
(Hattas artists posing with their family pets. Pic: Hattas Studios)
"We are a team of animal lovers. One of the perks of our job (painting murals in people’s homes) is getting to meet the lovable pets around Los Angeles,” says Hattas Wilson. “Our team wants to help. And this is our way of supporting LA’s recovery.”
Hattas artists also know the importance of taking action in crucial moments. The need is immediate, and the consequences of inaction can be dire.
"Animals have no way of speaking for themselves." says Art Director Ryan Kliebhan. "This must be such a confusing time for them. Supporting them means we are healing a part of our community."
Using Creative Solutions to Heal
(Supervising Artist Ian Burgess puts his unique painting skills to use with a sweet puppy portrait. Pic: Hattas Studios)
Applying our skills to this small movement is one way to channel creative solutions towards destructive energies. A small shift in perspective could make a world of difference to both pets and their humans.
"I have painted a number of pets for clients through the years, and it's clear pets are very meaningful to people," says Hattas Supervising Artist Ian Burgess.
"Some people may have never considered a portrait painted of their pet. But once they see the spirit of their beloved pet in a painting, they will instantly cherish it."
(Hattas members pose for a photo with their pets. Pic: Hattas Studios)
Sometimes the best solutions to crises aren’t the most obvious ones. The simple act of smiling at a stranger or scratching that good spot behind an animal’s ear could alter their entire day.
Pets have a unique way of showing us how to be present and to remember what’s most important.
(Marley the dog and Ian the artist at one of the Hattas Studio locations. Pic: Hattas Studios)
“My husband and I adopted our dog Marley eight years ago from the Humane Society. He changed our lives for the better. And he quickly became the Studio’s mascot, beloved by the entire team," says Hattas Wilson.
"Every morning, he runs from person to person to say his happy hellos with hugs and kisses!"
The Paws-itive Effects of Taking Action
(Hand-painted pet portraits created to raise wildfire awareness and relief funds. Pic: Hattas Studios)
Wildfires are unpredictable and high risk, and the damage can escalate rapidly once they begin.
“In disasters like these, we often think about the human toll, but we don't often think about the animal toll as well," says Production Artist Sophia Lambrecht. "But animals are part of what makes some homes a home. And being able to reunite families is the best-case scenario.”
Painting portraits is not just about commemorating your pet—it’s also about contributing to a larger movement of care, compassion and community solidarity.
“I'm happy to be a part of a company that is trying to do its small part to help our community in its time of need,” says Project Manager Tony Arredondo.
“I've contacted all of my friends, with and without pets, to spread the word about our cause, and they have been very supportive. Everyone wants to help in any way they can.”
Every Little Kibble and Bit Counts
(Custom pet portrait of cute puppy to raise wildfire awareness and relief funds. At left is original photo. At right is hand-painted portrait. Pic: Hattas Studios)
Of course, it doesn’t require special skills to help. The people of Los Angeles can find ways to volunteer and help their local communities. By working together, efforts can be amplified … raising awareness, and providing real support to those in times of need. You can also make direct monetary donations to animal shelters, including Pasadena Humane Society. These funds help provide care and medical attention to the animals in need.
Join Hattas Studios by taking action, no matter how great or small. Getting involved now can help pets and families find their way back home.
Make Your Pet a Hero
Please participate by having your own beloved pet painted, and 100% of the profits will go to the Pasadena Humane Society. Click here to upload a photo of your pet, and receive a custom hand-painted portrait honoring your finned-, feathered- or fur-baby. Each painting comes with a Wildfire Animal Support Insignia on the front, and a Donation Certificate on the back, commemorating your contribution.
Please share this post with your friends and family, and anyone you think could offer their support at this time. Every effort counts!
Blog Post Written by Lindsay Evergreen | Lead Production Artist | Hattas Studios