Grants Pass High School art teacher offers custom pet portraits to support scholarships

Grants Pass High School art teacher Joshua Morton is once again using his artistic talent to make a difference for students. This year, Morton is offering a very limited number of custom pet portraits to support his One Sweet World Scholarship Fund, which helps Grants Pass students pursue post-secondary education.

Each commissioned piece will be a 24x30 fine art painting of a community member’s beloved pet, created in Morton’s signature style. These one-of-a-kind portraits will be completed in time for Christmas, making them the perfect keepsake or gift for any animal lover.

To ensure each work receives the time and attention it deserves, Morton plans to select two to four commissions from interested community members. The base price for a 24x30 portrait is $1,000; larger pieces or multiple pets are available for an additional cost. A 50% non-refundable deposit will secure each commission, and all details, including size, subject matter, and final pricing, can be coordinated directly with Morton.

Since founding the One Sweet World Scholarship Fund in 2013, Morton has sold his artwork and donated more than $40,000 to support his students. The fund provides scholarships to Grants Pass High School seniors who have taken his art class and plan to continue their education after graduation, regardless of their chosen field of study.

“The One Sweet World Scholarship is all about helping students take that next step after graduation,” said Morton. “By turning art into opportunity, we have been able to support some amazing young people as they chase their dreams.”

Morton’s creative fundraising efforts have ranged from selling original works to offering commissioned art pieces for local businesses and individuals. His latest initiative of painted pets gives community members a chance to own a custom piece of art while contributing to a cause that directly benefits local students.

Those interested in commissioning a painting or learning more about the One Sweet World Scholarship Fund can contact Joshua Morton at jmorton@grantspass.k12.or.us.