When I was a little girl, I loved horses. I would ride whenever I got the chance. I even helped train and break them in for riding. I volunteered at stables and the local riding school just to be close to them. Our family could never afford to own one (or even co-own one). I participated in 4H and learned everything I could about these magnificent creatures. And since I am also drawn to the arts, even as a child, I would draw horse after horse, as anatomically correctly as I possibly could. ​

I'm finding so much joy in painting animals. Pets especially are the most wondrous creatures. Lola and Carlos was my first double pet portrait and also my first time painting a long-haired dog. Buddy just had this cute little smirk that I just had to capture. This is all a commission for one person, my lovely friend Elisa who always supports her creative friends. I believe these are Christmas presents for friends of hers. 

I decided to put my "Pet Portraits" online for purchase on ETSY, and of course, I let my friends know. In comes my first commission of a cat. Meet Rajha. I learned so many new things with this painting. 

I did another pet portrait memory of a beloved pup, Angus. Angus went on tour with myself and Chris & Beth Jones in 2022 when we toured the US for six weeks in their RV (playing music as the Redneck Files). Angus was 16.5 years old when he joined us on that tour. He managed to make it to a whopping 17.5, incredible for a bigger dog. He was the sweetest little soul, and this is how I remember him with a big smile on his face, even when he was in a lot of pain. 
I gave the portrait to Chris and Beth last week, so now I can finally share it with the world. Angus, you will be missed! 

As I dive further into my art and particularly into these pet portraits (and other people-portraits that I am not yet ready to share) I am learning a great deal about the importance of keeping my details clear. ​