From her cozy lookout position atop the couch cushions, Olivia can keep tabs on her territory. At home her outgoing and confident personality stands out, and she is a lively and loving member of the family. When I met her at a park near her home she was curious but shy, and it took her a few minutes to warm up to me and my camera.  The opportunity to interact with her, even for just a few minutes, was most helpful in understanding and illustrating her unique qualities.

Since many of my clients live far away, I don’t always get the chance to meet the animals I spend weeks studying and painting. I rely on good photos, collaboration with the pet owners, and my knowledge of animal anatomy and form in order to bring out their unique personalities and physical characteristics.

Luckily, Sierra lives not far away, near Syracuse, and visits the Capital District occasionally. We met this summer. She warmed up to me quickly and was proud to show me some of her favorite toys. For many Labradors, swimming for tennis balls is the most important sport of all. It’s a skill that requires agility, speed, focus, and heaps of enthusiasm. Sierra has perfected her technique over the years, but owes much of her success to the fans, coaches, and tennis ball tossers that love her dearly and appreciate the joy and companionship she offers unconditionally.

Byron rests in different places around the house throughout the day, following the warm patches of sunlight that stretch through the windows in Joel’s office, the kitchen, dining room, then living room.  This light calms him, soothes his old joints, and makes everything right in the world.

No. 2 in my “Dogs Being Dogs” series.  Boston terrier at Washington Park, Albany.  5×7 Pastel

We met Jake and his family almost a year ago, and we’re glad to have the little guy in our circle of friends.   Jakey sometimes stays at our place when his people are out of town, and Byron visits him when we go away.   Their behaviors and their way of playing are quite different, so it has been interesting to watch the two dogs learn to communicate with each other.  After many walks as a pack, he and Byron are slowly becoming good buddies.  This is very important – single dogs need pals.

Smokey lives in Salem, Oregon, where the winter can be a little bit gray.  No matter the weather, he likes to be outside.  His backyard is his kingdom, and he perches atop the hot tub to keep a close watch on the grounds.