Some people wander around a modern museum, wondering how somebody could sell random splotches of paint for a small fortune. Maybe you need to think “outside of the box.” Or maybe its a seal’s idea of fine art.

At Columbia’s River Bank Zoo in South Carolina, the zoo is auctioning off some of its best work - by animals. That’s right, art normally created by human hands is done by claws and paws. The star artists are snow leopards and sea lions and parrots and more. No Picasso here - just some animal paintings for fun and for a good cause.

Association spokesman Steve Feldman says zoo keepers have used animal paintings for some time, as a way to raise money and as a form of stimulation for the animals, who appreciate color and play.

The money raised will go toward zoo conservation efforts and is sponsored by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. To take part in this online auction, visit http://www.auctionnetwork.com. The first painting up for bidding is done a penguin. Now THIS is abstract art at its best!

Sushi, the Sea Lion with paintbrush, creating a masterpiece