Mixing paints, paws in Carmel on Saturday

The eternal question of “Who’s a good dog?” might get answered when Carmel’s pet pooches are given the opportunity to dip their paws into paint and create their own masterpieces for charity.

Join your friends and their furry companions at the City of Carmel’s second annual fundraising event, Art of the Dog featuring Paint Your Pet Party to be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Sophia Square in the Carmel Arts and Design District.

Your pet can be a ‘good dog’ by painting a masterpiece for charity. (Photo provided)

Proceeds from the event will go to the Indiana Canine Assistance Network (ICAN), the only accredited service dog training program in Indiana. This organization brings together dogs, offenders and people with disabilities to provide hope for more enriched and independent living.

Admission to Art of the Dog is free for both humans and canines, but there are charges for some of the activities to raise funds for ICAN. The event will be held on 2nd Avenue NW, across the Monon Greenway from Bub’s Burgers; 2nd Avenue will be closed for these activities.

Among the activities:

Paint your Pet Party

You can paint your pet’s portrait – no artistic talent needed – at Paint Your Pet Party. Send a picture of your dog that will be pre-drawn on canvas for you to paint at the event. Find more information at paintyourpetparty.com.

Pup Art

You can purchase a blank canvas and let your pet be the artist by putting their paws in pet-safe paint and stepping across the canvas to create their own masterpiece. If you don’t have a dog, you can still create artwork with an ICAN dog at the event. Cost is $10; proceeds go to ICAN.

Pet Picture Day

At the Pet Picture Day station, a professional photographer will take a pictures of you and your pet. Plan ahead for the cutest Christmas card you’ve ever seen. Cost is $10; proceeds go to ICAN.

ICAN Service Dogs

Check out real service dogs from ICAN who will be on site to provide educational demonstrations.

The Cat

The Cat will have a booth showcasing open auditions for Sandy the Dog.

Parking is available at city parking garages and other public parking spaces. Click here to see a parking map. Stay on top of any changes or added features by following the Carmel Arts & Design District on Facebook.

About the Carmel Arts and Design District

The Carmel Arts & Design District is the Midwest’s premier arts and design destination. Home to more than 200 businesses, including art galleries, restaurants, antique dealers, design showrooms, boutiques and creative service providers, the Carmel Arts & Design District promises to stimulate the senses. The Indiana Design Center is housed in the Carmel Arts & Design District. In addition, hundreds have taken advantage of the wide variety of housing opportunities and call the Carmel Arts & Design District home.