Working as an illustrator for many projects using watercolor & pencil during my art career, mainly with American Girl, Inc., I’ve rediscovered painting with oils as my favorite medium.

This painting of my dachshund “Gypsy” is the first portait painting I did of my own dogs. It marked the beginning of my animal portrait work.

It has been a natural progession for me to offer my services as a portrait artist for others. For those who have a strong bond or connection with the animals that share their lives with us and, those whom also have an appreciation of original art and oil paintings.

Dogs and other animals have unique and fun-loving spirits that are such an attraction for me. Looking at that face for hours, and studying the eyes and expression to get it right, it almost feels like I know the animal personally.

A client will commisssion a portait to be done
of their pet because of their love. The excitement that radiates when we discuss the desires for the portrait energizes me, and when my finished portrait brings tears to someones eyes, wow, what a great feeling and justification for what I’m doing.

What artist wouldn’t love that? ~ Susan