Our member and painter Ann Johnson reports:

I’ve recently embarked on a long-term project to draw and paint the rescue parrots who live permanently at the Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, near Lewes, East Sussex.

Mouse enjoying stay at Raystede

The Centre boasts modern facilities for all kinds of rescue animals and these temporary homes for small mammals who will be re-homed, are particularly imaginative, ensuring their stay is as enjoyable as possible. So many small creatures are kept in tiny cages, largely bereft of objects with which the animals can engage. But here, as you can see, the staff have used great creativity in using recycled objects to create comfort and interest and encourage activity for rats, hamsters, mice and gerbils, helping keep them busy and happy.

Hamster home

These photographs demonstrate the staff’s imaginative use of everyday objects. All manner of household bits and pieces, including egg and sweets boxes, shredded newspaper and components of non-dangerous domestic appliances objects etc… are made into hammocks, platforms, tubes to run along, ladders, and materials with which to shred and build.

Multi-storey house for rat

Small mammal home

Raystede offers a whole range of activities for adults and children, as well, including educational events on animal care for local schools.

Ann will continue to report on her time at Raystede over the coming months.

http://www.raystede.org/

See Ann’s work here on our site and on her own web site at: www.annjohnsonpaintings.net