WHAT IS THE HAUNTED ZOO?

To be haunted is to carry something deep within you—an idea, a feeling, or a memory that won’t let go. It’s a whisper that calls for change, urging us to act and be better. The Haunted Zoo, an art brand by Jeff Denomme, is here to inspire kindness, empathy, and positive action. Despite the big challenges we face—like bullying, social inequality, and environmental conservation—the characters of The Haunted Zoo keep their eyes wide open, sparkling with hope for a brighter future where all living things, humans and animals alike, coexist in harmony.

At The Haunted Zoo, we’re all about making awesome, bold art that sparks joy for everyone. Through art education and community outreach, we inspire young minds and use creativity to drive positive change, spread empathy and a sense of responsibility.

At The Haunted Zoo, our mission revolves around three core principles:

Creating Art: Whether it’s digital illustrations, paintings, large-scale murals, immersive installations, or vibrant merchandise, we are driven by a passion for producing bold, fun, and captivating art that resonates with people of all ages.

Art Education: We’re dedicated to sharing the vibrant world of street art and subculture with schools, children’s camps, and community groups. By fostering creativity and self-expression, we inspire young minds to explore, learn, and grow through art. Learn more here. BEE CREATIVE Kids Program

Being a Force for Good: At The Haunted Zoo, we see art as a tool for positive change. We strive to inspire kindness, empathy, and consideration, not only towards one another but also towards the world around us. Through our work, we aim to uplift and encourage a sense of shared responsibility for the community and beyond.

Meet the Artist:

Windsor, Ontario-based artist Jeff Denomme is the creative force behind The Haunted Zoo, a whimsical art brand that’s been 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, while also helping youth to cultivate and nurture their own creativity.

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.