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Zoo Miami Foundation is thrilled to announce an exciting call for artists to design and paint a one-of-a-kind Florida panther statue as part of the “Panthers on the Prowl” initiative, in collaboration with the American Cancer Society. This is a unique opportunity for artists to contribute their talents to a meaningful cause supporting conservation, education, and community impact.
Selected artists will be tasked with transforming a fiberglass panther sculpture into a stunning work of art inspired by the magic and mystery of the Florida Everglades. The completed piece will be showcased throughout Miami before being auctioned off at Feast with the Beasts in March 2026. All proceeds from the auction will benefit Zoo Miami Foundation’s education and conservation programs.
About the Panther Statue:
- Material: Hollow fiberglass
- Size: 2 feet tall by 4 feet long
- Weight: Approx. 40 lbs
Design Guidelines:
Artists are encouraged to submit innovative and visually compelling designs with a clear connection to the Florida Everglades.
- Paint Mediums: Exterior latex paint is preferred for its weather resistance. Other paints may be used but must be sealed with a polyurethane clear coat.
- Inspiration: Think “Cows on Parade” — vibrant, eye-catching, and community-focused. View examples at CowParade.com and on their social media.
Timeline:
All selected panthers must be completed by September 15, 2025.
What Artists Receive:
While artists volunteer their time, Zoo Miami Foundation will cover the cost of all materials. In return, artists will receive widespread exposure and recognition across Zoo Miami’s robust platforms:
- Social Media: Promotion to 300,000+ followers
- Email Marketing: Inclusion in campaigns reaching 300,000+ subscribers
- Website Visibility: Featured on the Zoo site with over 100,000 monthly sessions
- On-Site Display: Viewed by nearly 900,000 Zoo visitors annually
- Major Fundraiser Exposure: Highlighted at Feast with the Beasts, with ~1,000 attendees
- Panthers on Parade Showcase: Part of the high-profile public art installation in fall 2025
Each statue will include signage crediting the artist, along with a short bio and artist statement.
How to Apply:
Interested artists must submit a completed design proposal online. Only applications with a draft design will be considered.
Application Requirements:
- Name (required)
- Contact email (required)
- Contact phone
- Artist alias (if applicable)
- Why you want to participate (required)
- What inspired your design (required)
- Upload of proposed panther design (required)
- Optional: Link to your portfolio or website
- Confirmation that this is a volunteer opportunity with no monetary compensation
Submit Your Proposal Here: www.zoomiami.org/art
Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your talent while supporting a vital mission to preserve Florida’s wildlife and natural heritage. Let’s celebrate the beauty of the Everglades—one panther at a time.
About Zoo Miami Foundation
Founded in 1956, Zoo Miami Foundation (ZMF) is the private non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami. While Miami-Dade County operates and maintains the Zoo, Zoo Miami Foundation, backed by loyal Zoo Supporters allows Zoo Miami to continue mission-driven initiatives and zoo enhancements to inspire people through engaging experiences to preserve nature in South Florida and across the globe. Zoo Miami Foundation’s mission is to inspire people to preserve nature and motivate others to join us through community engagement, fundraising and building relationships.
Through the generosity of individuals, corporations, foundations, and government entities, ZMF operates robust Learning Experience programs, supports vital conservation initiatives, and supplements key capital projects that bolster animal welfare and guest experiences at Zoo Miami. With one of the largest membership bases in South Florida, Zoo Miami Foundation continues to make a significant impact connecting with and educating the South Florida community to take conservation action! For more information on Zoo Miami Foundation and its programs, contact (305) 255-5551 or visit zoomiami.org/about-ZMF
