I’ve always been drawn to animals. Growing up with dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and even hamsters, I learned early on that each companion carries its own personality, quirks, and energy. Spending time with them taught me empathy, patience, and the quiet joy of observing life in its many forms.
Time in the wilderness has shaped this even more. My grandparents homesteaded in a remote corner of British Columbia, and I’ve spent countless hours running trails, hiking, and climbing mountains. In these wild spaces, observing wildlife or simply listening to the rhythm of nature, I’m in awe of the subtle power of presence...both in animals and in ourselves.
Painting animals in watercolour, oil or mixed media allows me to honor that connection. Each brushstroke becomes a dialogue: capturing personality, energy, and spirit, rather than just a likeness. Whether it’s the playful tilt of a dog’s head, the watchful eye of a cat, or the mix of silliness and grace in the way my chickens move, I strive to bring that spark to life to an artwork.
For me, painting animals is a reminder of empathy, wonder, and the joy of connection. It’s a quiet privilege to capture the essence of these companions and to share it with the people who love them.
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