Wolf Conservation Center of NY Visits Spirit Gallery

Today, Spirit Gallery hosted its most unique guest of the year - Atka, the ambassador wolf of NY's Wolf Conservation Center (WCC). Over twenty artists gathered to take photos of this beautiful arctic wolf for two hours in the gallery. We learned more about wolves and their daily lives, and about WCC's mission to help reintroduce wolves into the lower 48 states.

The artists who participated in the event will be donating at least one finished piece each into a charity show we will hold this September in the gallery. Additional painters or sculptors are welcome to participate in this show to help educate the public on wolves and conservation, and help raise some money for the WCC's efforts. If you are an artist that would like to put a piece in September's charity show, please contact us for a disc of communal reference photos of Atka to be used in your artwork! The more the merrier, and we can't wait to see what everyone produces from this remarkable visit.

Atka was truly exceptional. It was a delight and honor to be within feet of a wolf, and to have the privilege of such an unique experience. Atka is unusual for a wolf because he is willing to travel and be close to strangers. Most wolves are incredibly shy and for good reason, avoid humanity as much as they can. Atka loves the lime light, though, and posed for us for a long time. He seemed very relaxed in the studio, and even dozed off for short periods of time in between exciting bouts of rolling on some sprayed "Axe" body spray, scoping out our old reception desk, and eating a banana. He was very obliging with the lights and flash photography. We couldn't have asked for a better day.

Thank you WCC and Atka for a wonderful experience and an opportunity that I never thought I would have in my life. We wish you fun and fortune in your travels, and look forward to your return on October 2cd for the public event during the wolf art show!

*If you are interested in attending the October 2cd event to meet Atka while the charity show is up and on display for auction, please contact is and reserve a seat! I am sure they will go fast.*