A chimp called Congo outsold legendary artist Andy Warhol at an auction in London. A group of three of the ape’s paintings went for more than $25,000. Ruby the elephant sold more than $100,000 worth of her paintings. The proceeds went to the Phoenix Zoo, where she lived. Congo and Ruby were just two stars in a line of animal artists that continue to cash in on the art world’s hunger for fresh work. Some skeptics believe animal artists get too much help from their trainers, who provide supplies and perhaps make artistic choices. But many respected critics have been quick to come to the animal artists’ defense.

“After examining the artwork of different chimpanzees at a gallery in London, I can tell you that at least some of these animals possess a style,” says Benjamin Aaronson, art critic for the national magazine Art! “The colors they select and the strokes they apply show a definite flair and feeling.”

“All that praise hasn’t gone to the animals’ heads,” says zookeeper Katie Harper. “My apes love to paint, but they don’t pay attention to reviews from their human audience,” she observes. “And if it came to choosing between a paintbrush and a banana, there would be no contest!”

Question

What is the best summary of the passage?

Animal artists receive help from trainers. Their art sells for a lot of money.

Congo’s paintings sold for a lot of money. Ruby’s paintings helped her preserve.

Animal art earns money. Some criticize their work; others respect it.