Hand in Paw celebrated 25 amazing years of service to the community at the 20th annual signature auction, Picasso Pets, presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka!
The diamond-studded gala took place on Saturday, August 14 at The Grand Bohemian in Mountain Brook Village. To allow room for social distancing and other COVID protocol, this year's Picasso Pets guest list was limited by invitation. Picasso Pets is Hand in Paw’s largest fundraiser and ensures that their Animal-Assisted Therapy services can be delivered at no charge to over 70 facilities across North Central Alabama and Tuscaloosa.
The evening began with a chic cocktail reception featuring delicious drinks and hors d'oeuvres, diamond drop, wine pull and more. Following the reception, guests enjoyed the official debut of the 2021 Picasso Pets paintings. These paintings were created by prominent local artists such as Thomas Andrew and Lila Graves who work with patrons and their pets to create exceptional commissioned pieces that are treasured for a lifetime. A glitzy live auction hosted by Ken Jackson and Guin Robinson added to the evening's excitement, and Hand in Paw Therapy Teams interacted with guests throughout the event!
The artistic theme for the night and inspiration for the 2021 Face of Picasso Pets, Bristol Fulton, is "Diamonds are Furever". Bristol Fulton is a Hand in Paw Therapy Team with her owner, Debbie Fulton. The Face of Picasso Pets was created by local artist, Becky Denny, who drew inspiration from the glamour of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's. Invited guests were encouraged to wear their most sparkly jewelry (and masks!) with their glamorous Hollywood attire to match the theme!
Picasso Pets was created to celebrate animals' amazing ability to help people have a brighter day, to heal and to realize their potential. All funds raised enable Hand in Paw to carry out their mission to improve human health and well-being.
To learn more about Picasso Pets, please visit www.picassopets.com.
Presenting Sponsor: Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Photo Booth Sponsor: John 3:16
VIP Room Sponsor: Birmingham Legion FC
Auctioneers: Guin Robinson and Ken Jackson
Honorary Event Chairs: Idie and Chris Hastings
Sponsorship Chairs: John Harbert
Face of Picasso Pets: Bristol Fulton
