Animystics- Artists and Animals with Abigail L. Dela Cruz

Meet Abigail L. Dela Cruz. Abigail is a freelance and studio artist, living and working in the Philippines. Her work includes portraiture, character design, and colorful and whimsical illustrations.

We are excited to exhibit Abigail's work for the Animystics Show! Below you can see her work for the gallery, her lovable pets, and more information about her artwork.


Three of Seven

"My family members are mostly dog lovers as you can see, and these three lovelies take the spotlight! The three of them are a playful bunch! They never fail to brighten up our day."


Among Spirits by Abigail L. Dela Cruz

"These spirit animals represent the curiosity of a child's heart. They are concealed to most people, but those who still approach the world with childlike wonder will have a strong connection and ability to see them."

This is a sneak peek of Abigail's work for the Animystics Exhibition. You can check out their work on the Light Grey Shop here, and you can see more of their work on their portfolio website here. All of the work for the show, all of the originals, prints, and handcrafted-works are available on the online shop, as well as on-site at Light Grey Art Lab! Proceeds will be going to local shelters, the Animal Humane Society, Feline Rescue, and Homeward Bound Dog Rescue- it's for a great cause! Proceeds from Abigail's work will go towards Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Delia Evin

Meet Delia Evin. Delia is a freelance illustrator living and working in Brooklyn, NY. She primarily works in watercolor, creating projects in a variety of formats including editorial illustration, temporary tattoos, card decks, exhibitions and more.

Delia has participated in several Light Grey Art Lab shows, including the current Animystics Exhibition, Beautiful Forever and the upcoming Omnibus Treasury. It is always a pleasure to share her work. Below you can meet her incredible cat, see her work for the exhibition, and find links to more of her projects portfolio work.


Benjamin Button

"I have a sphynx cat who currently lives with my mom. His name is Benjamin Button, because he looked like an old, wrinkly man when he was a kitten."


Matriarch by Delia Evin

"An indigenous people in Africa, the Mbuti, believe that the souls of their dead ancestors reside in elephants, while in parts of Asia elephants have been associated with lightning and thunderstorms."

This is a sneak peek of Delia's work for the Animystics Exhibition. You can check out their work on the Light Grey Shop here, and you can see more of their work on their portfolio website here. All of the work for the show, all of the originals, prints, and handcrafted-works are available on the online shop, as well as on-site at Light Grey Art Lab! Proceeds will be going to local shelters, the Animal Humane Society, Feline Rescue, and Homeward Bound Dog Rescue- it's for a great cause! Proceeds from Delia's work will go towards Feline Rescue Inc.

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Christina Ellis

Meet Christina Ellis. Christina is a concept artist and illustrator currently working at Moonbot Studios. She is one of the participating artist in the Animaystics show, and we are thrilled to have her join us for another Light Grey exhibition! Below you can catch a glimpse at the piece she made for the show, meet her little cat, and learn more about her work for the show.

Poopcat

"I have a kitten that I found stuck in a bush near an abandoned building. She's grown big and beautiful and strong now, my sweet Poopcat! (She earned that name, but has thankfully grown out of it.)"

Pendelbrast by Christina Ellis

"The Pendelbrast welcomes lost ones to sleep in a soft moss bed, where it creates paper dolls that take the shape of their dreams."

You can check out her work and all of the details on the Light Grey Shop here, and you can see more of her work on her website here. All of the work for the show, all of the originals, prints, and crafted-works are available on the online shop, as well as on-site at Light Grey Art Lab! Proceeds will be going to local shelters, the Animal Humane Society, Feline Rescue, and Homeward Bound Dog Rescue- it's for a great cause! Proceeds from Christina's work will go towards Feline Rescue Inc.

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Leanna Crossan

Meet Leanna Crossan. Leanna is an illustrator from Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, and a recent graduate from the Ringling College of Art and Design. Leanna has an interest in a great many things, including the Hobbit movies, Die Hard, nature, camping, hiking, traveling, illustration, fantasy art, Miyazaki, games, and more.

We are excited to exhibit Leanna's work for the Animystics Show! Below you can see her work for the gallery, her lovable pets, and more information about her artwork.


Sasha (left) and Max (right)

"Max, the dog, is a hyperactive ball of energy that hates flashlights, but loves tennis balls! Meanwhile, Sasha is a gigantic grumpy Maine Coon, who enjoys cuddling but only on her terms."


Talphen by Leanna Crossan

"Talphen is very wise, and has been known to wander into dreams or subconscious states. Most commonly, they approach those who are at a confusing time in their life, helping them see into the 'dark' and find answers."

This is a sneak peek of Leanna Crossan's work for the Animystics Exhibition. You can check out their work on the Light Grey Shop here, and you can see more of their work on their portfolio website here. All of the work for the show, all of the originals, prints, and handcrafted-works are available on the online shop, as well as on-site at Light Grey Art Lab! Proceeds will be going to local shelters, the Animal Humane Society, Feline Rescue, and Homeward Bound Dog Rescue- it's for a great cause! Proceeds from Leanna's work will go towards Feline Rescue Inc.

Animystics: Artists and Animals with Alison George

Meet illustrator and student, Alison George. Alison was born and raised in sunny California, and is currently attending the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore, MD. Alison has participated in past Light Grey Art Lab Exhibitions, such as the Great Personality Exhibition and Game, and is currently participating in the Animystics Exhibition!


Gwydion

Meet Alison's favorite little dog, Gwydion. "He was a buff little hombre that weighed all of seven pounds, liked to try and catch bees in his mouth, and would sleep curled up against my stomach when he'd sneak him into my room."


The Glorious Victorious by Alison George

"The Karkaras are two dogs that have a unique ability to start and control fires. The two are so interconnected, that if one of them is killed, they both die. They will return to life when the grass turns brown."

You can check out more information about Alison's work on the Light Grey Shop. You can also see the entire collection of Animystics artwork and give back to the animal shelters by purchase artist work here. You can also see more of her artwork on her personal website!

Animystics: Artists and Animals with Jessica Roux

Meet Jessica Roux. Jessica is one of the exhibiting artists in the Animystics Exhibition. She is a Brooklyn based-illustrator and designer, originally from North Carolina. Jessica grew up surrounded by nature, and you can see the animal and nature influence in her work- she uses subdued colors and rhythmic shapes, rendering flora and fauna with intricate detail!

"Elk in Nature" by Jessica Roux

"The elk comes to you when you are weak. It surrounds you with healing light, and passes its strength onto you."

Jessica Roux and Molly

"I just became the mother to one AMAZING shiba inu, Molly. My fiance Nick and I had been looking for awhile for the perfect dog to expand our little family, and we stumbled across Molly while adventuring in the Village. She is the most amazing pet I've ever owned. Skillfully smart, calm and kind, she lifts my spirits every day."

You can see more work by this artist on her website here, and in the Light Grey Art Lab Online Shop. A portion of the proceeds from this artists work will go to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue

Animystics: Artists and Animals with Sam Schechter

Meet Sam Schechter. Sam is a recent illustration graduate from UArts in Philadelphia, and currently lives in New Jersey. Sam has exhibited in several past Light Grey Art Lab shows, and we welcome her back for Animystics! Below you can check out her newest piece for the show, get to know her artwork, and hear all about her pets!

"Some People Call Me The Space Cowboy"

"One of the few ways a Jackalope can be caught is by leaving out a bottle of whiskey, as it is the Jackalopes sustenance of choice. It has also been said that the jackalope can convincingly imitate any sound, including the human voice. It uses this ability to elude pursuers, chiefly by using phrases such as "There he goes! That way!" During days of the Old West, when cowboys gathered by the campfires singing at night, jackalopes could often be heard mimicking their voices."

Sam Schechter, with Buster

"I currently have two dumb cats who think they're super smart (both rescues, Kiwi and D'Artagnan) and my family's first dog, Buster, a French Briard, recently passed away a couple months ago, but we saved him from a kill shelter mere days before he was to be euthanized. We had him with us for 17 short years and was loved dearly! The photo attached is from when he was 13 and still as spry as when we first got him (I'm the one awkwardly perched next to him on the rock)"

You can see more work by Sam on her website here And in the Light Grey Art Lab Online Shop A portion of the proceeds from this artists work will go to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Animystics: Artists and Animals with David Aguado

Meet David Aguado, from Valencia, Spain! David works as a freelance artist making illustrations and paintings, and has an interest in Concept Art. He has participated in exhibitions in Spain, the United States, and the Netherlands, including Light Grey Art Lab's past show, 6 Degrees Postcard Exhibition. We are happy to feature his work again in our Animystics show. Here is a preview of what he has created!

SteppenWolf

David loves the author Herman Hesse, and was inspired by his novel Steppenwolf when he created this illustration. According to David, the Steppenwolf represents the animal, wild, and natural sides of us, and can help people to know themselves.

You can see more of David Aguados's work on his blog here. You can also see David's work for the Animystics Exhibition on the Light Grey Shop. A portion of the proceeds from David's work will be donated to Homeward Bound Rescue. All of the artwork will be released on the Animystics website and online shop on Friday, April 18th! Keep your eyes out for details!

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Casey Crisenbery

Meet Casey Crisenbery. Casey is a Chicago-based illustrator and designer, who makes colorful illustrations, works on children's books, apparel, textiles and more! Casey has participated in several Light Grey Exhibitions and printed projects, such as the In Place: wish you were here, Macro + Micro Exhibition, and 6 Degrees Postcard Exhibition. It is always a pleasure to talk with Casey about his work and see his new projects for the shows! For the Animystics Exhibition, Casey shares his spirit animal, some of the history of these beings, and his our pet stories.


Melody

"My parents first dog, Melody, was my best friend growing up. She was a very sweet and mild mannered Shetland Sheepdog that always enjoyed your company."


Drastie Cove by Casey Crisenbery

"In Scottish tradition there are tales of 'Otter Kings' who were found traveling in packs. When captured, they would grant any wish in exchange for their freedom. The Otter skins were also prized for their ability to render a warrior invincible."

This is a sneak peek of Casey's work for the Animystics Exhibition. You can check out his work on the Light Grey Shop here, and you can see more of his work on his portfolio website here. All of the work for the show, all of the originals, prints, and handcrafted-works will be available on the online shop starting April 18th, and opening at Light Grey Art Lab on April 25th! Proceeds will be going to local shelters, the Animal Humane Society, Feline Rescue, and Homeward Bound Dog Rescue- it's for a great cause! Proceeds from Casey's work will go towards Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Sarah Talmadge

The Animystics Exhibition is coming very soon, and we just can't wait to share all of the adorable animals and new artwork with you! To find information about the upcoming show, all of the contributing artists, and ways to donate, please check out the Animystics Facbeook Event page here. You can also donate to the Walk for Animals on the Light Grey team page here. Proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to the Animal Humane Society, the Feline Rescue Inc., and Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Over the past several months we have been talking with artists about our favorite furry friends and the importance they play in our lives. Today, we are releasing the work of illustrator, Sarah Talmadge! Sarah was born and raised in Yokohama, and is currently an illustrator and animator at Disney Interactive. Below you can meet her adorable puppy, Chopper, and see a preview of her new piece for the Animystics show.


Chopper

"Growing up I've had a series of odd pets, from chipmunks to hamsters to goldfish to tadpoles. I got a taste for dog ownership at 16, when my parents got Pippin, an adorably grumpy miniature schnauzer. Now that I'm living on my own I have my very own pup, Chopper, a 2 year old toy poodle. Depending on the weather, we're out and about enjoying the sunshine or staying warm on the couch with a nice, fluffy blanket."


Winter Offering by Sarah Talmadge

"As a spirit animal, the arctic hare can only be seen by the human that it is bound to. It can travel into the person's mind and revive long-forgotten memories."

You can find the original and signed prints of Sarah's work on the Light Grey Shop here. You can also check out more of here work and portfolio on her tumblr here. Proceeds from her work will be donated to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue.

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Justin Oaksford

Meet Justin Oaksford. Justin graduated from the Art Center in Pasadena, CA, and currently works as a concept artist and narrative illustrator at 343 Industries in Seattle! He has worked on projects such as Halo 4, Project Spark, and participated in several past Light Grey Exhibitions. He is also a current adjunct professor in the MFA program at Digipen Institute of Technology.

We are thrilled to work with Justin for the upcoming Animystics Exhibition, and really excited to see his inspirations for this project!



"My roommate Bridget Underwood (who is also in this show!) and I have two cats we adopted, Koopa the Calico and Bowzer the Tortoise Shell. One is a drooly loner, and the other is a diva scaredy-cat who can't control her vocal chords, so she squeaks when she moves :D They've been such a healthy addition to our household and I couldn't live without them."


On the Riverbank by Justin Oaksford

And here is a little history on this particular river otter, Lazuli:
"Lazuli is the guardian of a river. The River spirit, like all natural spirits, is a cold force. Her job is simply to flow. However, this River observed Lazuli, rescuing those who were sinking to the bottom, or leading those along who seemed lost. While the River could not help these people, it granted Lazuli a breath that could form a magical bubble- a tool to help her lead people along the river in safety."

Thanks, Justin- We are excited to hear more about your creature, all of it's powers, and mystical attributes!

You can check out more of Justin Oaksford's work on his portfolio site here. You can also see Justin's work for the Animystics Exhibition on the Light Grey Shop here. Proceeds from Justin's work will be donated to Feline Rescue Inc. All of the artwork will be released on the Animystics website and online shop on Friday, April 18th! Keep your eyes out for details!

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Alyssa Winans

Meet Alyssa Winans. Alyssa is a RISD Graduate, and currently working in San Francisco as an illustrator in the gaming industry. She has worked on projects such as Harmonix/ Disney's Fantasia game, as well as many other freelance projects, books, and posters. Alyssa enjoys, "working on projects from home, growing tomatoes, and making experimental ice cream flavors!"

We are excited to work with Alyssa during the Animystics Exhibition! Here is a sneak peek at her piece for the show and her real life animal companion!


Kuma

"I only have two fish living with me right now: Hall & Oates. However, my favorite fuzzy companion is actually my sister's dog, who my entire family dotes on! Kuma is an Australian Shepherd/Husky Mix, as well as a rescue dog. Due to his severe anxiety issues and various health difficulties, no one would adopt him, and the shelter could not longer keep him. My sister in law saw that he needed a foster home, volunteered, and eventually kept him. In two years, he's gone from being terrified of faces to grudgingly accepting our copious amounts of love and affection.. he remains the gentlest, most sweet-tempered dog I've ever met. He also likes to 'herd' his stuffed animals around the house."


Fight and Flight by Alyssa Winans

We asked each artist to tell us a little about this animal, the inspiration, and why this is their spirit animal. Alyssa said, "I was always very attached to rabbits/hares as a child, and that has only gown as an adult. Their ability to be fearful, quick, watchful, and curious has alway resonated with me..."

You can read more about this piece, check out the original, or purchase a print on the Light Grey Shop here. You can also see more work by Alyssa Winans on her website here.

Animystics- Artists and Animals with Marianne Vincent

Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing some of the touching stories, adorable pets, and artwork of the artists from the Animystics Exhibition! We are thrilled to celebrate their artwork and contributions to the show! As we share these artist's stories and artwork, we will be releasing their prints and originals on the online shop!

Meet Marianne Vincent. She is an illustrator from Montreal, Canada. She has a background in traditional and 3D animation, and is currently a lead artist at Hibernum Creations and a freelance illustrator. This is Marianne's first time exhibiting with us at Light Grey Art Lab, and we are thrilled to get to know her! Below are some of Marianne's real-life pets and inspiration for the show!


"Katie is a sweet and loving Persian cat that I rescued from a backyard breeder. Even though she can be a bit shy at times, she is constantly on the lookout for attention."


"I fell in love with Onyx as soon as I saw him at the pet shop! Back then, I already had two other ferrets under my care, Cyanure and Skyli, but wanted him to join the family..."


Onyx by Marianne Vincent

You can check out Marianne's work on her website here, or purchase her work on the Light Grey Shop here. A portion of the proceeds from Marianne's sales will go towards Feline Rescue Inc. You can see more information about Feline Rescue, their mission, and their adoptable cats on their website.