Calling all animal lovers and art enthusiasts alike...on Tuesday, September 16, the Auction Network will conduct a live auction featuring artwork created by the Oklahoma City Zoo’s very own animal artist, Asha the elephant. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is partnering with the Auction Network to host its “Art by Animals” program and will be auctioning original artwork produced by more than 60 animals from AZA members nationwide. The auction will be broadcast live from 4 to 7 p.m. on September 16 online at auctionnetwork.com/aza.

The three-hour live auction is expected to draw a worldwide audience, and will feature appearances by wildlife celebrities Jack Hanna and Nigel Marven. Auction goers can view a complete online program at auctionnetwork.com/aza to see a picture of Asha’s painting (program #44) and even place proxy bids before the auction begins. Proceeds from the sale of Asha’s painting will support the Oklahoma City Zoo’s conservation efforts.

Asha, one of the Zoo's Asian elephants, has been creating mammoth masterpieces since 2001. Her introduction into the art world came from her keeper staff's desire to stimulate her apparent art interests and create a new form of enrichment. In addition to painting, Asha enjoys eating, swimming, and playing with her sister, Chandra. Both Asha and Chandra are currently away from the Zoo on a breeding “date.” While they’re away, the Zoo is constructing a multi-million dollar, Asian-themed habitat scheduled to open in 2011. The elephant exhibit will be given priority in the construction process to assure the girls’ new home is complete by the time they return to the Zoo in a few years.

Creating and providing new forms of enrichment is something the Zoo’s animal care staff provides on a regular basis. Enriching experiences, such as painting, provide stimulation for the animals while enhancing their physical and psychological well being.

We’re honored for Asha to represent us during this creative collaboration with AZA and the Auction Network,” said Brian Aucone, Oklahoma City Zoo’s Director of Animal Management. “Not only will this bring additional funds to enhance our wildlife conservation efforts, it will demonstrate the positive benefits of our animal enrichment activities which are an important part of the care and welfare of animals in zoos and aquariums.”

Get a one-of-a-kind piece of art and support the Zoo by bidding on Asha's masterpiece! Oklahoma’s #1 attraction and one of the top three family friendly zoos in the nation, the Oklahoma City Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. AZA-accredited facilities are dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things.

Located in the heart of The Oklahoma City Adventure District at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. with exhibit buildings closing at dusk. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for children ages three to 11 and seniors age 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free. For more information, call the Zoo at (405) 424-3344 or go online at www.okczoo.com.