What is The Haunted Zoo?

To be haunted is to carry something within you—an idea, a feeling, or a memory that won’t let go. It’s a whisper that calls for change, a reminder to care, to act, to do better.

Today, all animals (humans included) feel the presence of humanity. Imagine a world where nature thrives freely, where every creature has its place. Together, we can create that world again! Though we face big challenges—like protecting habitats, cleaning our oceans, and healing our climate—there’s so much hope. Every small action we take can make a big difference for the planet we share.

The Haunted Zoo is here to inspire us to be kinder, smarter, and more thoughtful. It’s a call to care for one another and all living things, leaving the Earth healthier and brighter for generations to come.

The characters of The Haunted Zoo burst with life, joy, and a contagious optimism! Their eyes glimmer with a story of hope—a vision of a future where humans and animals share a beautiful harmony. Together, let’s stay inspired, look out for one another with eyes wide open, and take every step toward a brighter and kinder future!

 

Meet the Artist:

Windsor, Ontario-based artist Jeff Denomme is the creative force behind The Haunted Zoo, a whimsical art brand often described as “Hello Kitty meets Tim Burton.” Loved by kids and adults alike, Jeff’s vibrant work includes digital illustrations, paintings, murals, and more that blend playfulness with much design depth.

At just 19, Jeff launched Fathom Clothing, a streetwear brand that took him across North America on the Vans Warped Tour, sponsoring bands like Silverstein, Taking Back Sunday and Matchbook Romance. Fathom’s shirts made waves by being featured in MTV music videos and reaching a global audience. This success set the foundation for Jeff’s next creative venture.

In his late 20s, Jeff channeled his passion and experience into The Haunted Zoo, a street art brand with a cohesive bold and imaginative style. While living in Vancouver, Jeff gained recognition in the local arts scene, earning silver in the Telus Artist Challenge and collaborating with brands like Volcom, Toms and Land Yachts at the Telus Ski and Snowboard Festival (Whistler, BC). His presence cemented his reputation as a dynamic and innovative artist in the scene.

After a decade-long pause to focus on family, entrepreneurial ventures, and other creative projects, Jeff found new inspiration through his young son’s love for The Haunted Zoo. Seeing how his son connected with the characters, Jeff reimagined the brand as a family-friendly universe filled with whimsy, hope, and joy—one that could inspire kids and adults alike.

Since reigniting The Haunted Zoo in late 2023, Jeff has been on a creative whirlwind. He’s participated in several mural festivals, exhibited at art shows from Detroit to Nashville to Las Vegas, expanded his merchandise offerings, and begun writing and illustrating his first children’s book. The brand now blends fun and imagination with a mission to inspire kindness, inclusion, and care for the planet.

Jeff’s vision for the future is as vibrant as his art. He dreams of publishing a series of books, producing an animated TV show, launching more merch, and partnering with conservation groups to educate kids on taking care of the world around them. Through street art workshops and creative youth programs, he also hopes to inspire the next generation to dream big and act with compassion.

The Haunted Zoo is just getting started, and Jeff Denomme’s passion promises a bright and impactful future for the brand—and for everyone it touches.