TOPC Artist Applications
Cat Care Society is accepting applications for artists to participate in Tails of the Painted Cats (TOPC), a biennial fundraising gala and art auction benefitting Colorado cats in need.
Application deadline: September 15, 2026
About Tails of the Painted Cats
Tails of the Painted Cats (TOPC) is Cat Care Society’s signature fundraising event. This upscale biennial gala features a dinner and art auction raising funds for Cat Care Society to continue its mission.
For each event, numerous artists donate their time and talents to create beautiful, hand-crafted artworks to be auctioned off at the fall gala.
There are 3 ways that artists can participate in this year’s event:
- Apply to paint a “Painted Cat” (3D fiberglass sculpture)
- Apply to paint a Flat Cat (12×12” gallery style canvas)
- Donate another type of art to the TOPC Auction
Application deadline: September 15
Who We Are
Our Mission
To be a safe and enriching place for all cats on their journey to a loving home. We do this by providing compassionate care, shelter, adoption services and community engagement.
Painted Cats
The “painted cats” are the stars of the show. These large fiberglass animal-shaped sculptures are painted by artists in a variety of themes.
Artists complete an application including an illustrated design/concept using one of the template sculpture forms. Applications are juried by a team of professional artists. Selected artists receive a blank sculpture form, a small stipend for art supplies, and a complementary ticket to the gala.
Flat Cats
“Flat cats” are 12″x12″ animal-themed canvas artworks that can be completed in any medium.
Artists must submit an application including a link to an artist website or portfolio. No advanced design/concept is required for this application. Selected artists will receive a blank 12″x12″ canvas.
Application Schedule
How to Apply
Click the button below for your desired application, and complete the online form. Please make sure to read the full instructions at the top of the form. Applications that do not follow the application instructions will be disqualified.
If you prefer to submit an application by mail, you may download and print a PDF version of the forms and mail the application to CCS at the address provided on the application.
All applications must be submitted/postmarked by September 15, 2026.
FAQs
How long will artists have to complete their artwork?
Artists will receive supplies (art form/stipend and/or canvas) in February 2027. Artists will have approximately 3 months to complete their artwork after supplies are received and return it to Cat Care Society.
Can I submit more than 1 applicaiton?
Artists may submit up to 3 painted cat designs and 1 flat cat application.
Can I donate a completed piece of art to the auction?
Yes! We are accepting donations of other types of art for the TOPC auction (e.g. pottery, mosaics, quilts, fiber arts). Donated art must not be canvas or sculpture art. If you have an item you would like to donate, please fill out our application!
Can I submit an application by mail?
Yes! Applications can be submitted online or by mail. Applications must be submitted/postmarked by September 15. Please note, artists must be able to travel to the shelter in Lakewood, CO to pick up supplies and return completed artwork.
How are applications judged?
A team of professional artists will review applications and select artists based on a variety of factors including artistic quality, creativity/uniqueness, potential donor appeal, feasibility and durability of the design concept. Please keep in mind that the art collection will go "on tour" through local galleries for several months before the auction. Pieces must be sturdy enough to be transported multiple times without damage.
Can I create a hand illustrated design for the application?
Yes! Many of our artists submit hand drawn illustrations/sketches for their application. Both digital and hand created illustrations are welcome. AI created designs are not allowed. Hand drawn designs can be photographed in good lighting and attached to the online application, or mailed in to the address on the application.
I have another question.
Please email our Art Coordinator, Tara Deenihan, at tdeenihan@catcaresociety.org!
Previous Painted Cat Galleries
Find ideas and inspiration by viewing our past “Painted Cat” galleries.
Open Hours
Tues–Weds: Closed
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