In an effort to increase awareness and help raise funds for animal rescue and welfare organizations, life-long animal lover and artist, Karen Derrico founded an on-going project called "Painting 4 Paws-Art with a Cause." To date, her bright and cheerful animal art has raised nearly $10,000 for animal organizations around the country.

In addition to commissioned pet portraits, Derrico donates her time to create artwork of special rescue animals each month submitted by various animal organizations. Upon completion, the artwork becomes available for "adoption" on the Painting 4 Paws web site, and at various exhibits and benefits. A photo and story about the rescue animal and an adoption certificate accompany each "adopt a painting."

Derrico's unique style of bold, bright colors with a semi impressionistic flair has captured the attention of pet lovers around the country. But it's not only her artistic style that is unique. Instead of using traditional paints and a bristle brush, Derrico creates her artwork with a wireless digital paintbrush and advanced painting software. Make no mistake, however, hers is anything but push-button artistry. Just as a traditional artist does, Derrico starts with a blank canvas, and paints stroke by stroke to create her signature soulful pet portraits. Even at close range, her work is virtually indistinguishable from paintings created with traditional art tools.

During July and August, Derrico's work will be featured in a large exhibit at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Fairfax, Virginia. Portions of proceeds from the exhibit will benefit Pets with Disabilities-an organization that helps fund wheelchairs for disabled pets- and Gooddogz.org, a Reston, VA based organization that provides public education and assistance to dog rescue organizations.