We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Pamela Thielen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Pamela below.
Hi Pamela, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
NAMES & TITLES OF ON CAMERA SPEAKING GUESTS: Pamela Thielen, Owner and Artist Gallivanting with Gurt (GallivantingGurt.com
SEGMENT TOPIC: “From Canvas to Compassion: Arizona Artist Turns Art into Aid for Senior Pets”
Refined Main Talking Points:
The Heart of the Mission:
“Gallivanting Gurt is more than just art; it’s a lifeline for senior dogs. I donate 100% of the profits to The Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary right here in Maricopa. Every purchase directly supports these vulnerable animals.”
“My goal is to raise awareness and support for senior pets who suddenly find themselves without a home.”
The Urgent Need:
“Senior pets often struggle in traditional shelters. They’re overlooked, stressed, and their health can decline rapidly. Many times they are surrendered due to the passing of their owners.”
“Just recently, The Gud Ark rescued two senior dogs found beside their deceased owner, who had passed away three weeks prior. Without The Gud Ark, these dogs would have ended up in an overcrowded shelter, confused and scared.”
“This is a common, heartbreaking situation. Many people don’t have a plan in place for their pets.”
The Gud Ark’s Impact:
“The Gud Ark provides a loving sanctuary where these senior dogs can live out their days in comfort and dignity, no matter how long that may be.”
“Senior pets have unique needs: specialized food, medications, frequent vet visits, and extra care. The Gud Ark meets those needs with compassion.”
Your Personal Connection:
“As a senior woman and an artist, I felt compelled to do something. I’ve seen firsthand the challenges these animals face.”
“I’m not wealthy, but I can use my art and my voice to make a difference. Gallivanting Gurt is my way of ensuring The Gud Ark can continue its vital work.”
Call to Action:
“Visit GallivantingGurt.com to shop for unique art and merchandise, and support The Gud Ark. Follow us on social media to learn more about our mission and the amazing dogs we help.”
“Help us spread the word and make a difference in the lives of senior pets.”
BACKGROUND INFO: From Heartbreak to Hustle: How Gallivanting Gurt Was Born
Losing a beloved pet changes you. It’s a wound that leaves a scar, a constant reminder of the unconditional love they gave and the void they leave behind. For me, losing our last furry family member wasn’t just heartbreak; it was a wake-up call. Suddenly, the question of “what happens when…” loomed large. What happens to our senior pets when we’re no longer here? It’s a question many of us don’t consider until it’s too late, and I’ve seen firsthand the devastating consequences of not having a plan.
Witnessing the incredible work of The Gud Ark, a sanctuary I’ve been deeply involved with, fueled my desire to do more. I’m an artist, and I’ve watched The Gud Ark grow from a small dream to a thriving non-profit, earning their 501(c)(3) status. I poured my heart into donating profits from art shows and sales, but it always felt like I was hitting a ceiling.
Sometimes, I’d create pieces specifically for a show, only to see them sit unsold. Disappointment was a constant companion. I longed for a sustainable way to contribute, a method to consistently generate funds for The Gud Ark. I envisioned a way to sell products that directly benefited the sanctuary, but the traditional art fair route just wasn’t cutting it.
Fine art doesn’t always resonate in those settings, and I was spending money on unsold pieces,
effectively hindering my ability to help. I needed a different approach.
Enter Print on Demand!
Enter print-on-demand. It was a revelation! Here was a platform that allowed me to create and
sell products without the upfront costs and logistical headaches of traditional art sales. And
that’s how Gurt was born.
Gurt is more than just a character; she’s an inspiration. She represents the vibrant, adventurous
spirit that lives in all of us, no matter our age. I wanted to challenge the idea that life’s
adventures have an expiration date. Gurt proves they don’t! She’s smart, savvy, and always ready
for new experiences, inspiring us to seize every moment. She embraces her body, wears a
bathing suit, and enjoys the beach and pool. Gurt is living life loud and proud, and she
encourages us to do the same.”
Gallivanting with Gurt is more than just a brand; it’s a mission. It’s about:
Celebrating Senior Women: Gurt embodies the wisdom, strength, and zest for life that comes with age.
Highlighting Senior Pets: We shine a light on the senior dogs residing at The Gud Ark, reminding everyone of the love and companionship they offer.
Giving Back to the Community: 100% of the profits from every purchase supports The Gud Ark and their vital work in caring for senior animals.
Join Gurt on her journey and discover the joy of embracing life at every stage. Help me help them. Let’s celebrate senior women and senior dogs, one adventure at a time.
Visuals: I will be bringing Paintings of Gurt engaging in various activities. And 2 original painted bags. All Gurt Merchandise is based on Original paintings. I also will have images of Dogs and background from The Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary. I have attached a link to Biscuit one of the Gud Ark’s Dogs. I featured in a blog post. Each month I will be a featuring a Gud Dog or other Gud Ark resident in a blog and newsletter. Additionally there will be new Gurt Adventures each month with new correlating merchandise. Everyone who signs up for the newsletter will be entered in a drawing for a Visor. I will bring one of the visors.
The Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary – https://www.thegudark.com/about-the-owners/
Pamela, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Artists statement
Pamela Thielen
Acrylic Artist
I am a native of Oklahoma, but I have always felt the desert calling to me. In 2010, my husband and I embraced this calling and moved to Maricopa, Arizona, a decision that has been a true blessing. From the breathtaking desert landscapes to the convenience of city life, Arizona offers an unmatched blend of natural beauty and accessibility. Whether it’s a short drive to the mountains, a day at the beach, or a visit to one of the world’s natural wonders, living here feels like being at the heart of endless inspiration.
As an artist, I have always viewed the world through a unique lens. I paint with acrylics but apply techniques reminiscent of oil painting, resulting in a style that is distinctively my own. Under the guidance of Ginger Cook at the Academy of Fine Art and Acrylic Painting, I have honed my craft and developed a deeper appreciation for the medium.
My work often reflects the connection between the familiar and the extraordinary, encouraging viewers to find meaning and emotion in everyday moments. I believe every home deserves artwork that speaks to the heart and the soul, leaving the interpretation to the viewer.
In addition to painting, I cherish spending time with my incredible husband, family, and friends, and I find solace in reading and exploring the beauty of Arizona.
Juried Exhibitions
University of Arizona, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Mac Maricopa, Arizona — September 2024
Maricopa Cultural Affairs & Arts Advisory Committee
• September–December 2022: Fall Festivities
(Queens Pumpkins)
• January–April 2023: Dusk to Dawn
(Quiet Time and Going Home)
• January–April 2024: Diversity in Maricopa
(The Women)
• May 2024–January 2025: Maricopa Autumn Festivities: Good Times of Fall Exhibition and Public Art Display
(Queens Pumpkins and Explore Your World)
• January 2025–May 2025: Book Titles: You Can’t judge a book by it’s cover
(Sometimes you just need a Snickers, So many books and Coffee shop dreamer
• May 2025–September 2025: Bon Appetit: Yummy in my Tummy
(Bag of tomatoes and Rustic Feast)
Mac Maricopa Art Advisory Counsel
• May 2025–September 2025:
Enjoying the Spot – Gallivanting with Gurt
A special thank you to the Maricopa Cultural Affairs & Arts Advisory Committee for hosting these events and the Toast to the Artists Appreciation Reception. My painting Explore Your World was purchased by the City of Maricopa and will be displayed in the City Manager’s office after January 30, 2025.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
I have always wanted to do something for Animals. When I started painting and participating in Art shows I vowed to donated all of my profits to an animal Sanctuary. But Fine art does not sell well at craft and markets. So I would create more low cost paintings and hope that I found products that would be well received and sell. Sometime I was right and sometimes I was wrong. When I was wrong I was spending money and creating paintings that did not sell. If was very frustrating. I felt that I was just throwing money away. I would have been better off to take the money I invested in creating paintings, the time and the expenses of show and table fees and just giving it to the Sanctuary.
I was never in painting for the money for me. I am fortunate enough that I don’t need that. But when I participated in my last Art fair and discovered it was not really art but rather crafts. I spent 2 days and did not even cover my table and show fees. To add insult to injury my beloved pup died the next day. I was grief stricken and mad at myself.
But, with I took her very expensive special food to the Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary, I witnessed what they do. They are the final home for senior pets who has lost their pet parents. When I was there they had just picked up 2 senior dogs who were found at the side of their deceased pet parents. They brought them from a shelter to the Sanctuary.
I was not able to do this but I determined right then and there that I would help their cause. I would find a way to bring awareness and ultimately raise money for them
I started looking for grants for them and ultimately discovered print on demand. I could create paintings and transform them into merchandise that would be printed print on demand. No more spending money on merchandise that did not sell.
I started Gallivanting with Gurt in February 2025. In time for a big kick off in my town.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I bought a website, recreated the content and started social medial March 2025. I am a 60+ year old woman and social media was foreign to me. But I knew that Gurt was different from other business.
In the beginning because I wanted to connect with older women. Gurt is an older woman and she has the spirit of adventure. She reminds women that they can continue to have adventures. They can wear a swimsuit regardless of the size of their thighs. Go to the beach, the pool, just go!
Additionally my business is all about raising awareness and money for the Gud Ark Animal Sanctuary. I give 100% of my profits directly to them and I state that on my website.
Being that I a not about making money for me but for them I thought I could reach out for dog lovers and get them to help me help them.
I knew nothing about Instagram and Threads. I started telling my story, introducing the residents of the Gud Ark and stating that I give 100% of my profits to the Gud Ark. I was interacting with dog owners. I always post and comment. If I see someone else’s content that is interesting and related to my mission I comment something positive on their posts. Many times they will follow. I will say I follow many more people than I have followers. I have made many mistakes and I have learned from them. But I am quick to apologize and because they are honest mistakes all has been forgiven.
I have successfully managed to get over 1200 followers on threads. One of my first interactions resulted in a connection with Jamie Cereta and Arizona Chanel 3. She took an interest and I was interviewed. I am very proud of this accomplishment. Arizona is the 5 largest media market in the United States and I got an interview.
I want to continue to expand my social media presents. I am interested in TickTock but with the current situation being who knows if it will be allowed to continue, I made a decision not to pursue it at this time. Also I frankly am not such the age demographic fits my demographic.
I may never go viral but I am slowly growing and slowly raising awareness and money for the Gud Ark.
They do the hard work and I am thrilled to be able to help them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://GallivantingGurt.com
- Instagram: GallivantingGurt.com
- Facebook: GallivantingwithGurt
- Youtube: GallivantingGurt.com
- Other: GallivantingGurt on BlueSky
PamelaThielenFineArt on Instagram, Facebook
Image Credits
They are all my own images.