Painting VIPS (Very important Pets)

Several years ago my friend Chris asked me to paint three of his cats and his dog.  In fact, they were to be the first of my series of Pet Portraits. Although Chris and I lost track of one another I recently heard from him again. He has two new family members (a cat and a dog) and he asked me if I could continue the series.  The painting below of his cat ("GEORGE") may have been the very first pet portrait I ever did!



GEORGE

 Since then I've painted dozens of them and it's really an honor to commemorate these VIPs (very important pets).  It's also a bit anxiety provoking because each time I do it I strive to capture the spirit and personality of these special creatures.

When I was young we had a family dog (she was a little wiener dog - a Miniature Dachshund). We rescued her from at  a shelter back in Michigan. She soon became part of our family. It didn't matter that she looked a little different (and smelled a little different!).  She was one of us and when she passed away, it was one of the most difficult times of my life!  Can you believe, it still brings tears to my eyes to think back on her passing...

As sad as that time was I'm glad that I experienced it because it made me realize just how important pets are - all animals really - to those who love them.  I also realize that with each portrait I paint, there's a responsibility of trying to get it right. With that being said, I have to admit, I'm really not a great artist, so it's a real challenge, each and every time! 

One of the first portraits I painted was of "NOCHE". He  liked to be out at night prowling for mice and other critters. For this reason I decided to paint him in a night scene.  I call this painting NOCHE @ NOCHE.

NOCHE @ NOCHE

I've met some interesting people through the years who've collaborated with me in unique ways. I've been asked to paint clients' pets on different planets - or flying through the sky with wings.  A few years ago I was commissioned to paint a pet portrait as a wedding gift to a couple who lived on the East Coast.  I was asked to send it to them directly upon finishing it and I did, but the package got lost in the mail! Just as I was about to start all over it was found. Thank God for that because I think I got lucky and the painting came out well. The dog's name is "OTIS" - shown below.



OTIS



I'd like to thank all of those who have entrusted me with painting their VIP! It's something I'll probably continue to do for as long as I'm able to - and for as long as I'm asked.

If you would like to immortalize your pet, or know someone who might, please don't hesitate to contact me at:



j9art_music@yahoo.com



MARLEY



MADDIE