On October 20th, Diana Madaras will unveil 6 new paintings in her first series ever– The Spirit Animals. This event will celebrate the Gallery’s 20th anniversary.

Growing up the daughter of a veterinarian, Madaras always had a strong connection to animals. She decided against a career in veterinary medicine after living at the hospital. “I could not deal with the suffering I saw on a daily basis,” she said.

Now through her Spirit Animal Series, Diana has found a way to give eternal life to the animals she paints. “I can feel the souls of the animals when I paint them,” Madaras explains. “There is a certain magical moment when the animal comes to life, usually after I finish the eyes.”

Madaras has also continued to combat animal suffering through her relentless philanthropic efforts. Over the past two decades, Madaras’ nonprofit Art for Animals has raised more than $200,000 to help animal and wildlife causes. This year, the Tucson Wildlife Center recognized her as the 2019 Benefit Honoree for her outstanding contributions to animal welfare.