Oh, a storm is threat’ning
My very life today
If I don’t get some shelter
Oh yeah, I’m gonna fade away
DAN MAZUR/Special to Bullet News
Shrek
Born and raised in Niagara Falls, local artist Jordan Newhouse has been painting for over 10 years. It is his passion and he is devoted to his craft.
As life-long animal lover, Jordan is also very concerned about animal welfare. Currently Jordan is showcasing his paintings at a charity art exhibit called “If Tomorrows Winds Be Wild” at the Niagara Falls Public Library.
Admission and parking are free to view the impressive collection of paintings for sale. The exhibit, which runs from January 1 – January 31, is Jordan’s first showing and sales have been brisk. Jordan has generously decided to donate 80 per cent of the proceeds from his paintings to four local charities: The Heart and Stroke Foundation, Women’s Place, Heater’s Heroes, Women’s Place, and The Niagara Falls Humane Society.
Having endured the “starving artist” phase of his career, Jordan experienced many setbacks and depending on friends and family to help get him through the lean times. In launching his painting career, Jordan suffered many setbacks as he struggled to make ends meet.
Jenny
This difficult time really opened his eyes to the value of having a helping hand available when he needed it. If not for his support network, he may not have been able to have followed his dream of becoming a working artist. This is something that Jordan has not forgotten and has made him more appreciative of those who dedicate themselves to assisting the less fortunate. What makes Jordan so unique aside from his incredible artistic talents is his charitable spirit.
Pursuing a career in the art world can be an arduous endeavour which requires much self-sacrifice. Undeterred, Jordan is steadfast in advancing his promising painting career while giving back to local organizations that assist those in need, whether they are human or animal.
Jordan’s love of art and enthusiasm for helping local charities is infectious. Painting is something that he would do regardless of financial gain. Once he has become more seasoned and established, Jordan would like to get into teaching and share his love for art with others. Furthering his career while helping out as many charities as possible is what motivates Jordan and his artwork. Having grown up with animals, Jordan felt compelled to raise funds for the cats and dogs for the NFHS. Assisting the shelter through his artistic talents is one of his top priorities and for that, the Niagara Falls Humane Society is extremely grateful.
Cornelius
Every Saturday, Jordan will be doing live paintings at The Cat Adoption Centre at Niagara Square beginning at 12 noon. While his favourite subjects to paint include autumn scenes, figures, vineyards, and stormy seascapes, Jordan will be painting wildlife portraits and domestic animals.
Currently at the Adoption Centre, we’re featuring the Art for Animals display which includes paintings, pet portraits, and sculptures for sale. A portion of every piece of art sold benefits the shelter. There is a real sense of community amongst Jordan and his fellow artists in Niagara. He is looking to work with like-minded colleagues including painters, sculptors, and photographers for future events. Jordan can be reached at jordanvisualarts@gmail.com, 905-401.2729. Visit Jordan’s website at www.jordannewhouse.com and like his Facebook page, Jordan Newhouse artwork.
Jenny is a loving senior looking for her forever home. She’s been at the Adoption Centre since October eagerly waiting for the day she’s adopted and brought to her forever home. While she gets along well with most of her kitty roommates, she also enjoys some quiet time to herself. If you would like to get to know me please let one of the volunteers know and they can arrange that. You’ll be happy that you did.
Cornelius is a funny, smart, sweet little guy. He has lots of playful energy, and can run very fast!. He sits on command, and would do well in a home with people who will play with him everyday, as well as walk him so he can burn off some energy. Cornelius has a sparkle in his eye and you can tell he needs things to do to keep him from getting bored
Shrek’s nickname at the Adoption Centre is “Snaggle Tooth” because he has one long bottom tooth that makes him look so cute. He’s a bit of a loner and doesn’t routinely introduce himself to our visitors so you have to seek him out to meet him. He’s very playful and gets along great with the other kitties.
Please support the inaugural National Cupcake Day which benefits SPCAs and Humane Societies across Canada including the NFHS. To register and help raise some funds for the shelter, visit www.nationalcupcakeday.ca.
Dan Mazur is a member of the Niagara Falls Humane Society’s board of directors
