The Lost Dogs’ Home Managing Director Dr Graeme Smith is used to being surrounded by creatures from the animal kingdom, however recently he was introduced to a world of a different kind as he attended the 2010 MiDFur Convention. MiDFur, for the uninitiated among us, is a celebration of anthropomorphic art and creativity, and it is a social forum for fans of this art – fans which are known as ‘Furries’.
These lovers of anthropomorphic art (which features humanoid forms with animal characteristics), enjoy expressing their passion through many outlets – from paintings and comedy performances to dressing up in an array of animal costumes and decorative accessories. Above all however, Furries are dedicated to supporting the animals which so captivate them.
And that is how Graeme came to be in the midst of the closing night of this year’s Convention. MiDFur began in 1999 as a small meet up between Furries, and has expanded, until in 2008 the community decided to turn the event into a four day convention.
Each year, the Furries have selected a different animal charity to which it donates the funds raised from its MiDFur Convention. This year, The Lost Dogs’ Home was honoured to be the recipient of a generous donation resulting from the auction of a range of Furry art work and paraphernalia.
Graeme was not only blown away by the artistic talent and creative expression which defined the event, but also by the generosity and passion shown by the over 300 Furries and interested public who passed through the four day Convention.
“Thank you for the generous support shown by the organizers of this event, and for those who donated artwork and an array of amazing animal-related designs for the auction. It was a fantastic experience.”
MiDFur spokesman Kyle Evans said that choosing to give to a charity such as The Lost Dogs’ Home was an integral part of the event.
“We are motivated by our interest in animals and our care for animals.”
Kyle said that the Convention’s art show was a huge success, as Furry artists took up temporary residence in the “dealer’s den” where they created pieces to auction for the Home.
Another highlight of the Convention was the presence of guest of honour Stan Sakai - an American comic book artist with Japanese heritage. Stan is a favourite among Furries, and is renowned for creating Usagi Yojimbo – a long-running comic book series about a rabbit samurai and his adventures through feudal Japan.
While it’s back to the real world of our own furry dog and cat tenants at The Lost Dogs’ Home, Graeme will not forget the welcome and generosity shown to him and to the Home by the Furry community. And, we have learnt that there are many wonderful ways in which humans can express their love for animals.
If you are interested in the Furry community or MiDFur and would like to find out more, click here .
