The exhibition honors the age-old connection between people and animals and features the work of some of the finest artists in the Midwest, including works by Gina Litherland, Teresa James, Jennifer Davis, Bill Reid, Steve Wirtz, Helen Klebesadel, and Charil Reis. Taxidermy, including works by Sarina Brewer and mounts prepared at Norling Taxidermy, will be featured exhibits.

“Animal Dreams: of the Earth, Water, Sky and Imagination” opens Friday June 12 at 1 p.m. and runs through August 22.

“This is a very imaginative exhibition,” curator Martin Rowe said. “There is a painting of cows by Craig Blietz that almost looks like it belongs in an 18th Century church. There is a wondrous painting of the Hodag by Michael Noland from Illinois who has long been fascinated with the (Hodag) legend.”

“The work of (Sarina) Brewer and her partners turned the art world upside down with their pioneering taxidermy sculptures which first gained worldwide attention in 2004 after they appeared on the front page of the New York Times art section,” Rowe said.

ArtStart will celebrate the exhibition with an opening reception: an “Arty Party” Saturday, June 13, beginning at 4 p.m. The event is open to the public at no charge and includes music, a dance party, snacks and a cash bar. Families are welcome, and a “kids’ room” is included with art activities, movies and a kids’ art walk for youngsters.

ArtStart is located at 68 S. Stevens Street in Rhinelander. Gallery hours are Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday 1 to 7 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.