The University of Oregon’s Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art is hosting a free family day filled with animals and art Saturday from noon to 3 p.m.

The May 3 event, called Animal Tales,  will have adoptable pets from Greenhill Humane Society and First Avenue Shelter, performances by Ballet Fantastique and the JSMA Dragon Puppet Theatre and art activities for all ages. Art activities will include creating portraits of animals in the style of contemporary artists inspired by the museum’s collection and special exhibitions.

A family-friendly guided tour starts at 2:15 p.m. Attendees also can explore the galleries on their own with the museum’s ArtPacks. The ArtPacks offer families an interactive way to take self-guided tours of the museum and are available for checkout at the front desk in English and Spanish.

“The JSMA's free family days provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the museum's galleries and experience art activities for all ages,” said Debbie Williamson, the museum’s communications manager.

A reception will be held before the start of Family Day at 11 a.m. It will honor the artists in the seventh annual NewArt Northwest Kids juried exhibition.

This year’s entries address the theme Food for Thought, and the artists are from K-12 schools across the state. Although the reception and Family Day are separate events, the museum encourages families to attend both.

Family Day is sponsored by Kendall Auto Group, and ArtPacks are sponsored by Bank of America. Visit the JSMA website for the full schedule of events.

- by Katherine Cook, Public Affairs Communications intern