I just wrapped up a portrait of my dog, Skip! He’s a rescue pup who joined our family after we sadly lost two other dogs in just a few weeks. Skip was only 8 months old when he came to us as a foster, having been bounced around by two other families before finally finding his forever home. Can you believe he’s turning 13 years old this month? He means the world to me! If you check out his portrait below, you’ll see one thing for sure: Skip is all about the food, and that always makes me smile.
Drawing and painting animals is so much fun for me! They ignite my imagination because each one has its own unique charm and personality that deserves to shine. I love the challenge of capturing their essence on canvas.
With my paintings, I want to spark some empathy and create a connection between viewers and the animal world, reminding us of the amazing bond we share with these furry friends. That connection is so powerful, and I hope to inspire respect for all animals, especially with the challenges wildlife faces these days. My artwork is bright and fun, but it’s made with love. And when it comes to baby animals? I can barely keep my excitement in check just thinking about them!
Creating pet portraits is something I’m really passionate about. Dogs, cats, horses, birds, and all our other animal buddies aren’t just pets; they’re beloved family members. They stay in our hearts forever, and having a piece of art that reminds us of who they are or were is just so special. Memorial pet portraits are especially meaningful, and it’s an honor to create them.
Quick heads up:
If you’re thinking about getting a dog or cat, definitely consider adopting from a rescue. There are so many animals out there looking for homes! My heart dog Skip came to us through Sweet Paws Rescue, which will soon be in Boxford, Massachusetts, so I just had to give them a shout-out. Here’s their website: https://www.sweetpawsrescue.org/
Art is everywhere, so keep looking up and around! - Leslie
"Drop that fork" - Portrait of Skipper (2026)