Masterpieces with a Mission: Collage to the Rescue by Wendy Tigerman, Is Here to Make a Difference

In a world that often overlooks the discarded and forgotten, Collage to the Rescue emerges as a unique and heartfelt tribute to both the art of collage and the compassionate act of animal rescue. This book is not just a collection of beautiful images; it’s a celebration of second chances and the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places. Through the lens of collage, the book captures the transformative power of love and creativity, inviting readers to see both art and animals in a new light.

The creators of Collage to the Rescue have dedicated this book to the countless animals who are waiting for a second chance at life—those who have been hurt, scared, or abandoned, and are longing for a loving home. The dedication speaks volumes about the book’s mission: to shine a light on the animals who are often overlooked and to honor the people who tirelessly work to rescue them. In many ways, the artists featured in this book are rescuers themselves, taking pieces of paper, objects, and ephemera that others might see as junk and transforming them into something extraordinary. This process of turning the unwanted into something beautiful mirrors the work of rescue organizations, who take in unwanted, homeless dogs and make them available to loving humans who see them as the beautiful, loyal, and adoring creatures they truly are.

The commitment to this mission is more than just words on a page. A significant portion of the profits from the sale of Collage to the Rescue—a full 50%—is dedicated to supporting non-profit rescue organizations. Among these are the SPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and Pet Orphans of Southern California, all of which work tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need. These organizations are lifelines for animals who have been neglected, abandoned, or abused, and they provide not only care and shelter but also the hope of a better future. By purchasing this book, readers are directly contributing to these efforts, ensuring that more animals can find their forever homes.

But Collage to the Rescue isn’t just about raising funds—it’s also about raising awareness. The book highlights the often-overlooked beauty of collage as an art form, while also drawing attention to the critical issue of animal rescue. The artists featured in this book are as diverse as the dogs they honor, each bringing their own unique style and perspective to the table. From the early collage pioneers like Henri Matisse and Hanna Hoch, who worked with scissors, paper, and glue, to contemporary artists like Andrew Nawroski and Stacy Russo, Collage to the Rescue showcases a wide range of styles and techniques. Each artist has contributed not only their work but also their passion for the cause, making this book a vibrant and soulful collection.

Take Deborah Kleven Morbetto, for example, who created the cover for Collage to the Rescue. In 2002, Deborah made the bold decision to quit her day job and become a full-time artist. Her work, which includes a mix of wax, collage, found images, and digital arts, perfectly captures the spirit of this project. Deborah’s pieces are a testament to the idea that art can be both beautiful and meaningful, a reflection of the transformative power of creativity. Similarly, Stacy Russo, the artist behind the title page, brings a wealth of experience to her work. Stacy is not only a visual artist but also a writer, librarian, DIY oral historian, and certified expressive arts facilitator. Her approach to art is deeply personal, often exploring themes of identity, memory, and the passage of time. Together, these artists and many others have created a collection that is as diverse as it is inspiring.

The parallels between collage and rescue are clear. Both involve taking something that others might see as worthless and transforming it into something valuable and beautiful. In the hands of a skilled artist, a scrap of paper or a found object can become a powerful statement, a piece of art that speaks to the heart. Similarly, in the hands of a dedicated rescuer, a dog that has been abandoned or mistreated can become a beloved companion, a source of joy and unconditional love. This is the essence of Collage to the Rescue—the belief that with a little care and creativity, we can all make a difference.

The stories and images in Collage to the Rescue are a testament to the resilience of both animals and art. They remind us that no matter how broken or discarded something may seem, with the right care and attention, it can be transformed into something beautiful. As you turn the pages of this book, you’re not just admiring beautiful art—you’re also supporting a cause that changes lives, one rescue at a time.

Every purchase of Collage to the Rescue is a step towards giving an animal a second chance, towards helping rescue organizations continue their vital work. It’s also a step towards appreciating the art of collage, an art form that, like rescue itself, sees beauty where others see only the discarded.

In the end, Collage to the Rescue is a celebration of what can happen when creativity and compassion come together. It’s a reminder that with a little love and a lot of heart, we can all be rescuers, whether we’re saving a piece of paper from the trash or giving a dog a new lease on life. And as you enjoy the art and the stories within its pages, know that you’re part of something bigger—something that’s making a difference, one rescue at a time.