Student Art Exhibit at SQSPCA Opens on Valentine’s Day

COOPERSTOWN—An all-animal-themed art show featuring work created by Cooperstown Elementary School students will kick off with an opening reception at the Susquehanna Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on Valentine’s Day, Wednesday, February 14, from 4-6 p.m. The exhibit, aptly titled “Paws and Reflect,” will remain on display through February 24.

“We are thrilled at this opportunity to bring art into the lives of our animals here at the shelter,” said SQSPCA Executive Director Stacie Haynes. “Socialization for shelter animals is so very important to their well-being. By bringing art to our animals in this way, with a gallery show, we are attracting students, their families, and other visitors to the shelter. In doing so, they have an opportunity to engage one-on-one with our animals. It’s a perfect match!”

According to Cooperstown Elementary School art teacher Alyssa Ketcham, her students have been working for weeks on animal-related art projects in preparation for the “Paws and Reflect” exhibit.

“It is so important to me to get our students involved in the community from early on, and I am so excited that I get to use art to help them do so,” Ketcham said. “The students have been working hard on their creations and have enthusiastically embraced the idea that their work can positively impact the lives of the incredibly special residents of the SQSPCA. I am thrilled to be working with such a wonderful organization.”

Cooperstown Elementary School Principal Amy Malcuria can’t wait for opening night.

“I am so thankful for our incredible arts department at Cooperstown Elementary and the wonderful people at the SQSPCA for enabling this exciting collaboration. The fusion of art and animals, my two passions, is a dream come true. I take immense pride in our students’ dedication and effort in crafting these beautiful pieces for display,” Malcuria said.

The SQSPCA is located at 5082-5088 State Route 28, just south of the Village of Cooperstown. Student artwork will be displayed in the shelter’s Community Room and throughout the main lobby. Light refreshments will be served during the opening reception. For more information, contact (607) 547-8111.