Save the Chimps is the largest privately funded chimpanzee sanctuary in the world. Situated on 150 acres in Fort Pierce, Florida, the refuge provides exemplary vet care, nutritious food and social enrichment to over 220 chimps retired from laboratories, the entertainment industry, the pet trade and roadside zoos. Founded in 1997, the sanctuary’s Advisory Council includes Jane Goodall, and supporters include Paul McCartney and Pink.
Chimps share 98% of our DNA. They are similar to humans emotionally, physically—even creatively. Some chimps enjoy abstract painting, including a group of them at Save the Chimps. To spotlight the artistry of apes, and to raise funds for the sanctuary, Save the Chimps is partnering with Redwood Art Group to present a collection of paintings by chimps curated by human artists.
For Art Expo New York, Hollywood titans Joaquin Phoenix and his wife Rooney Mara collaborated with ape artists to curate the Joaquin Phoenix & Rooney Mara Save the Chimps Collection. Many of the 16 pieces are based on the vivid color schemes of Joaquin’s Oscar winning Joker character. Joaquin and Rooney painted the base coats then chose color combos for the chimps to use. FedEx Cares donated the shipment of the paintings from LA to the Florida sanctuary then onto Manhattan where they will debut at Art Expo New York, April 4-7. All sales benefit Save the Chimps.
