Creative With a Purpose
At NMCO Studio, we believe creativity can do more than look good. It can do good. As a studio that loves animals and even has our own office mascots that we feature in our social media, we wanted to start a project that helps out shelter dogs. We started our recent collaboration with the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley (ASCMV), where our in-house graphic design team created a series of illustrated portraits celebrating the personalities of shelter animals.
The project highlights each adoptable animal in a way that captures their charm and individuality. By translating real animals into custom artwork, our designers explored how visual storytelling can bring attention to the animals who call the shelter home.
Creativity Meets Community
NMCO cares deeply about community-based projects and regularly seeks to use creative to highlight important causes. “We’re strong animal advocates,” says Tina Ballew, NMCO Studio Co-Founder and Creative Director. “and ASCMV felt like the perfect partner for this pro bono project. It’s a way to give these animals recognition.” Through illustration, the team aimed to create portraits that feel vibrant and full of life, showing that these shelter pets are deserving of love and second chances.
Shelter Animals
Shelters often face slow rates of adoption, and we wanted to help change that by using the one thing we know best: creative storytelling. “Creativity can be such a powerful way to connect people to causes that matter,” says Lynn Cole, Account Executive at NMCO Studio. “By telling these pets’ stories in a new and visual way, we hope to help them stand out, be seen, and ultimately find the forever homes they so deserve.”
We’re proud to use our creativity to support our local shelter and, more importantly, to shine a light on adoptable pets. If you’ve been thinking about adopting, or know someone who is, this might just be your sign.
Meet the illustrated dogs of the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley:
Hula
I’m a sweet, silly, affectionate, and social girl who loves humans, gives the best kisses, and is always up for adventure. My buddy says I’m a “beautiful soul,” and honestly… I think that’s true.
Editors Notes: Hula has been adopted!
Willow
I know how to spread love and joy in the room. I also have a playful personality and love to explore!
Editors Notes: Willow’s name was changed to Reyna, and she has been adopted!
Hunter
I absolutely love playgroups! I get along well with both small and large dogs and enjoy all kinds of games. I’m an active boy who’s always ready for fun!
Editors Notes: Hunter has been transferred to ACTion Programs for Animals (APA) Las Cruces and is participating in the PAWS Prison Training Program during his stay. He is still looking for his furever home!
Hulu
Highlight of the day: a pup cone at Caliches. I ate it in three bites. Yes, I’m talented like that. My humans said I was happy, gentle, and affectionate—and I agree!
Editors Notes: Sadly, Hulu was euthanized due to shelter capacity limitations. This difficult outcome reflects a larger issue facing animal shelters nationwide, too many animals and not enough homes. Spaying and neutering pets and choosing adoption can help prevent situations like this.
Pharrah
I’m playful, affectionate, and love exploring! I enjoy splashing around in the kiddie pool and have become quite the socialite with my kennel mates.
Editors Notes: Pharrah is still located at ASCMV, looking for her furever home.
Find Your New Furry Friend
Projects like this are a reminder that design can be both expressive and impactful. By blending illustration, storytelling, and community partnership, our graphic artists created portraits that celebrate shelter pets and remind people of the demand to be adopted.
If you’d like to learn more about the animals currently at ASCMV, you can explore the full list of pets waiting for homes on the Animal Services Center of the Mesilla Valley website. It’s also important to spay and neuter your pets! Head to SNAP New Mexico to learn more about programs that help cover costs.
