The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Sana Hayes, an artist who has lived in Sisters for the past 17 years, uses her work to support local animal welfare nonprofits. She is currently one of the artist vendors featured at the Lions Club Holiday Faire, running through December 17 at the old Antler Arts building at 311 E. Cascade Ave.

“I created three different lines of jewelry over three years,” Hayes said. “Licensed To Love necklaces are made from the dog licenses of former shelter dogs and supports Three Rivers Humane Society in Madras. Unchained With Love necklaces are made with chain from formerly chained-up dogs who have been set free into fenced yards built by volunteers, and supporters of Fences For Fido. Rescued By Love necklaces are made with hair from horses in sanctuary at Three Sisters Equine Refuge. All three nonprofits are represented at this year’s Holiday Faire. “Next year’s line of jewelry is called Faith, Hope, & Charity.”

“In the past, we’ve made and sold doggy bandanas and coats, pet beds made from thrift store sweaters, ornaments, and more. I have also enjoyed helping two local rescues with pet portrait fundraisers using chalks and pastels. Anyone of any age who likes to do art can help.”

Hayes works all year making upcycled and rehabilitated jewelry in support of local animal welfare nonprofits.

“I recently had my line of jewelry supporting Fences For Fido at Grizzly Ridge Upcycle, and am looking for another local shop to carry my creations” Hayes said.

“I have an Etsy shop called TallClover, and am at the Lions Club Holiday Faire every year.

This is my 10th year participating with the Lions Club, and most years I am able to donate between $250 and $500 to help animal welfare, as well as the 25 percent that Lions Club takes in support of their own local projects.

One hundred percent of the proceeds are donated.

They have kept the table fee affordable for local makers like myself, and I appreciate that they do all the work, accept credit cards, and keep the shop open every day of the week for nearly a month.”

Hayes is motivated from the heart.

“I have loved rescuing animals my entire life‚”she said. “I worked at BrightSide Animal Center in Redmond for four years as an event director and volunteer coordinator, after beginning as a volunteer photographer and adoption specialist. Most regional rescues do a lot with very little money, and I enjoy using my endless creativity to help.”

Contact Hayes at [email protected] for more information or ways you can help.