Welcome to our fundraiser!
We are thrilled to introduce you to the work of an amazing Minnesota artist. Bonnie Swenson-Folkerts has a truly generous spirit and this year has donated an original acrylic painting to our organization. This painting that measures, 24 x 24 and a limited quantity of signed and numbered giclee prints are available for purchase now. All proceeds directly support the work of Bunny Besties.
With Bonnie we share a great love for two things: the University of Minnesota and the People Serving People homeless shelter in Minneapolis. As a University of Minnesota alum, Bonnie has loved seeing Bunny Besties' contribution to the on campus Pet Away Worry and Stress program, which gives the opportunity for students to relieve their anxiety by visiting with therapy animals. Our paths also crossed when Bonnie was asked to paint a bunny or two in her classroom mural for People Serving People. This shelter was where we began our Reading to the Rabbits program. We were honored to be recognized together at the People Serving People Gala. See below for PSP's video highlighting programs and special contributors.
Bonnie's beautiful artwork features three of our own Bunny Besties rabbits. On the left is Piper, who started it all. She was the bunny we took to read with children on our very first visit to People Serving People. Haremione sits on the right. Haremione came to Bunny Besties from a home that could no longer care for her and from the beginning has been overflowing with love for all of our friends in the community. The center bunny is Peter Pan. He is one of our youngest rabbits and joined our team last summer. Peter is big, beautiful, and full of curiosity. He perfectly embodies how Bunny Besties' continuing growth and forward-looking attitude.
A trio of rabbits is also an ancient symbol of good fortune and peace. This symbol mirrors our logo and can be found in sacred sites around the world. We hope this artistic motif can also represent our commitment to helping foster kindness and connection in our community.
With Gratitude,
Bunny Besties
With Bonnie we share a great love for two things: the University of Minnesota and the People Serving People homeless shelter in Minneapolis. As a University of Minnesota alum, Bonnie has loved seeing Bunny Besties' contribution to the on campus Pet Away Worry and Stress program, which gives the opportunity for students to relieve their anxiety by visiting with therapy animals. Our paths also crossed when Bonnie was asked to paint a bunny or two in her classroom mural for People Serving People. This shelter was where we began our Reading to the Rabbits program. We were honored to be recognized together at the People Serving People Gala. See below for PSP's video highlighting programs and special contributors.
Bonnie's beautiful artwork features three of our own Bunny Besties rabbits. On the left is Piper, who started it all. She was the bunny we took to read with children on our very first visit to People Serving People. Haremione sits on the right. Haremione came to Bunny Besties from a home that could no longer care for her and from the beginning has been overflowing with love for all of our friends in the community. The center bunny is Peter Pan. He is one of our youngest rabbits and joined our team last summer. Peter is big, beautiful, and full of curiosity. He perfectly embodies how Bunny Besties' continuing growth and forward-looking attitude.
A trio of rabbits is also an ancient symbol of good fortune and peace. This symbol mirrors our logo and can be found in sacred sites around the world. We hope this artistic motif can also represent our commitment to helping foster kindness and connection in our community.
With Gratitude,
Bunny Besties
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Original painting details in photographs.
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2020 Art 4 Bunny Besties artist: Bonnie swenson-folkerts
I am a Minnesota-based painter working primarily in acrylics and watercolors. Growing up in the idyllic landscape of the Driftless area in Southwestern Wisconsin, and my Mother’s passion for gardening, instilled a deep appreciation of and reverence for Nature. Creative influences include the detailed works of Albrecht Dürer and the macro views of flowers found in Georgia O’Keefe’s paintings.
My own extensive gardens and travels around the world provide inspiration for my work. Taking time to slow down and pay attention to the details reminds me just how small we are – and how much beauty we often overlook or take for granted! The animals, landscapes, and flora I paint represent my relationships to Nature. They are thoughtful and deeply personal. My work encourages and provides the Viewer an opportunity to look more closely as they navigate through each day, and allows them to create a positive awareness of- and relationship to
I have been painting bunnies for over twenty years. As an avid gardener, I was originally dismayed when I discovered that living under our deck and throughout our yard were seemingly hundreds of rabbits!!! Initially I thought I could prevent their destruction of my flower beds. I tried several methods to no avail- going so far as trying to surround my half-acre lot with 24” high chicken wire! Foolish me... Eventually it dawned on me that, in reality, I was not in control; not of the rabbits, and not in so many areas of life! The rabbits taught me to relax. To take what Nature gives you, appreciate it, and make the best of it.
When I learned about the Bunny Besties organization, I was immediately drawn to their program. The valuable work they do using Bunnies in providing stress reduction and emotional wellness services pulled at my heartstrings. These beautiful, adorable creatures spend their lives in service to others- and bringing happiness and joy to all who see them!
Bonnie Swenson-Folkerts
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