Alphazoo is proof that necessity is indeed the mother of invention. While experiencing some tough financial times, I decided to make a hand-made Christmas gift for my nephew, McLane. At that time, he was a very curious three year old, showing a lot of interest in nature and the world around him. I carefully selected animals with physical attributes that would allow them to be posed into the alphabet letters to spell his name. Once the drawing was complete, it was inked, handpainted in watercolor, matted and framed. The gift was a hit! Soon, friends and family members were requesting names for their children and grandchildren. Within a matter of months, the entire ALPHAZOO Animal Alphabet was designed and copyrighted. Now, three years later, ALPHAZOO is available to share with that special child or animal lover in your life.

About the artist, Jennifer Swayze:
Jennifer graduated from Baylor University and received a BFA in Studio Art with all-level, Visual Art Certification. Upon graduation in 1995, Jennifer began her teaching career as the Art Specialist for Bradfield Elementary in the Highland Park Independent School District, Dallas, TX. It was an ideal way to combine two of her passions, creating art and sharing the creative process with children. Jennifer also founded and directs Young at Art, an after school visual art-enrichment program for children.