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THERE’S ALWAYS ONE!

November 17, 2014 | 2 Comments

This illustration (2 out of 3) proved extremely difficult for me.  I’m not sure exactly why; the shaded window, the folds in the car seat or the size of the piece in general perhaps.

Not only did the illustration create frustration, the words in the story also caused inner conflict.  Unfortunately, we do still see people leaving dogs in cars or tied up outside shops.  We hear of the tragedies that occur as a result.  Theft and possibly death.  Still, people continue to leave their companions.

I considered not including the section with Henry and Reese in the car at all.  This book, however, is based on today’s realities and to teach children how to be safe.  A ‘what not to do’ for adults is clearly the more difficult lesson.  I changed this section of the book close to going to print.  I had to have someone in the car with the pups!  Thank you Jill for appealing to my better senses.

Boy at Car Window

Boy at Car Window

Categories: HENRY SAYS, "HELLO" - A Must Read Children's Book, WORKS OF ART Tagged: Best Friend, Dogs, Safety

COVER PUP

November 9, 2014 | 1 Comment

The Cover Illustration – Henry and Pumpkins

Henry with Pumpkins - unfinished

Henry with Pumpkins – unfinished

 

Henry with Pumpkins

Henry with Pumpkins

This illustration was inspired by a photo taken during one of Henry’s Birthday celebrations – one of my favourite photos.

Henry is giving my friend Lourdes (the photographer) a huge ‘toothy’ Henry grin.  Those smiles are contagious!

Categories: HENRY SAYS, "HELLO" - A Must Read Children's Book Tagged: Art, Beautiful, Best Friend, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Family, Fun, Happy, Heart, Henry

FIRST AND LAST

November 5, 2014 | 4 Comments

Henry in Window

Henry in Window

This illustration (pen and ink, pointalisim with watercolour), was inspired by one of my favourite photographs.  The photo was taken at my parent’s house during Christmas holidays.  There is a big park in the middle of a crescent – I imagine Henry was watching the squirrels frolicking in the snow.  In the story, Henry is watching the children on Halloween night.  Looking to the stars, Henry makes a wish.  You’ll have to read the book to learn what that wish is.

Categories: HENRY SAYS, "HELLO" - A Must Read Children's Book Tagged: Art, Beautiful, Best Friend, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Family, Happy, Heart, Henry

WHERE DO I BEGIN – HENRY’S BOOK FOR CHILDREN?

November 1, 2014 | Leave a Comment

 Where do I begin?
To tell the story of how great a love can be
The sweet love story that is older than the sea
The simple truth about the love he brings to me
Where do I start?

Bookshelf

Henry and his sister Reese are both ‘Puppy Mill Rescues.’  For anyone not familiar with Puppy Mills, the are large breeding facilities for the manufacturing of puppies to sell for profit.  Most Mills do not provide adequate care for their dogs: hence the fight to have these inhumane farms shutdown.

Henry was surrendered by a Miller at an early age due to a medical condition.  The Miller did not want to have to pay medical expenses for Henry’s treatment.  Shortly after we adopted Henry a female puppy was also surrendered.  Sadly, it was too late for her eye infection to be treated, and her eye was removed – situations like this are not uncommon with Puppy Mill dogs.

At the time of ‘Happy-Go-Lucky’ Henry’s adoption, Miss Reese was spending her days at a Mill in a suspended wire cage with a ‘drop-pan’ below to catch her business.  She was being used for the sole purpose of breeding: her puppies taken from her most likely at too young an age, and sold.  When Reese stopped producing (puppies and therefore money), she too was surrendered.  Unlike Henry, Reese was a shell of a dog – we knew she was in there somewhere: it took us more than two years to find the real Reese.  She has come such a long way since we adopted her, however; she’s still very nervous around new people and dogs other than Henry.  Reese is what is referred to as a ‘Yellow Ribbon Dog’ as she needs extra space.

Wherever we would go with Henry and Reese on our walks, kids would run over to meet the dogs.  Some would ask: most would not!  Kids are very energetic, and I found myself explaining over, and again how Henry and Reese would prefer to be greeted in a calm manner.  I decided I needed to write this book.  I truly hope it catches on and that children will share this lesson with their friends and so on, and so forth.

When my husband and I adopted Henry, I had no idea how much Henry would come to mean to me and how he would change my life – and me; for the better.  He inspires me and brightens my every day.  Now Henry is a ‘storybook’ character.  Clever, charming, oh-so funny and very friendly; Henry is the perfect guide for children throughout the story.

Finding the right words was not an easy task.  Creating the images was even more challenging.

In the next few posts, I would like to share with you some insights into the creation of this story and it’s illustrations.


Bookshelf

This illustration was a way for me to include our beloved Charlie, Maggie and Oliver: family felines that are no longer with us.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/(Where_Do_I_Begin%3F)_Love_Story

Categories: BOOKS & ENTERTAINMENT Tagged: Art, Best Friend, Cats, Dogs, Family, Feline Friends, Happy, Heart, Henry, Love, Rescue

A PAGE OUT OF THEIR BOOK

October 19, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Children & Dogs

A page from the book ‘Henry says, “Hello”

The above images are from our photo shoot to create marketing images for the book ‘Henry says, “Hello.”  The children arrived, smiling.  Immediately they started playing with the dogs – it was so natural and incredible to watch.  The dogs appeared comfortable in the presence of the children.  When children behave respectfully around dogs, it is an enjoyable experience for everyone.

These are not only campaign models; they are role-models.  We should all take a page out of ‘their’ book.

My thanks to Ava, Henry, Jack, Alyssa, Jake, Cassandra and Reese.

 

Photographs courtesy of Nexus Photography www.nexus-photo.com

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Beautiful, Best Friend, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Friends, Fun, Inspiration, Play

it takes a village

October 8, 2014 | 4 Comments

The African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” means the work of raising (and educating) a child cannot be done alone.  Rather, the entire community must participate to some extent in the task.

Henry & Jack

In this case, a group of people (some, complete strangers) came together to work on a project; a children’s book with a very important lesson to teach children – be respectful around dogs.  By working together, this group is also helping to make a wish come true.  Henry’s wish to teach children how to interact safely with dogs.

I invited two volunteer friends to listen to the story and provide feedback.  Graciously, they did so, and their contributions were incorporated, to strengthen the lesson for children, and additional programs suggested which might benefit from book sale profits.

Upon hearing the story, one of the volunteers asked if the characters (dogs) were based on real life examples, and did I have a ‘Merlin?’  I did not.  Turns out, there was a dog at the shelter I volunteer at, that had been adopted and renamed……MERLIN!  My volunteer friend put me in touch with Merlin’s mom, a Marketing Executive and Graphic Designer.  Sarah Kirk-Douglas permitted me to feature her dog as one of the characters in my book, and has also been incredibly generous with other aspects of this process.  I could not have done it without her.  Sarah has kept me on track, provided invaluable strategies for marketing and promoting the project and kept me focused and positive, during what has been a very emotional and stressful roller-coaster ride.

http://www.eventsbysarah.ca

Sarah’s mom Nadine – an editor was also quick to volunteer her assistance.  I have read the words over so many times, having a fresh pair of eyes, and feedback from someone reading the story for the first time was extremely helpful.

The stunning campaign photos were taken by Sarah’s Father in law Garrie, of Nexus Photography.  The day of the photoshoot started off cloudy, thankfully the rain held off.  Our models (four, and two-legged) connected beautifully (as children and dogs should), and everyone had fun playing, more than ‘posing.’   That feeling translated through the images.

www.igg.me/at/henrysayshello

www.nexus-photo.com

Children and Dogs - Naturally

Children and Dogs – Naturally

I would drop samples of paperwork off to Sarah’s husband Craig at his place of work (close to my house), and he would graciously transport the samples back home to Sarah.

Craig’s Grandmother even joined the affair by leading contributions towards the project!

Paul – a member of Sarah’s design team has volunteered his time and suggestions, to bring my vision of a classic, traditional-looking storybook come into being.

www.designanddevelop.com

Ryan at Rayment Collins has spoken with me many times about the project, spending time to research and find the best option to create my classic children’s book.  The objective; keeping print costs down so the book is affordable and generate a margin of profit that will be contributed to so many worthwhile causes.

www.raymentcollins.com

Mike at The Drafting Clinic scanned my illustrations ensuring the highest quality image was available for the design team.  Mike is taking the best care of my artwork until such time as I am able to make the trip to collect them.

http://www.dccltd.ca/

The incredibly beautiful song used as an accompaniment to the slideshow was written and performed by Curt Carter & Tom Connelley.  I had the pleasure of communicating with both gentlemen and granted permission to use the song in collaboration with our project.  It was the first song I listened to, and I could not bring myself to choose a back-up song.  I would consider that ONLY if they denied my request.  Thankfully, they did not.  In fact, it seemed as if everything was falling into place – as if it was meant to be.  Carter & Connelley are kindred spirits.

These are truly songs from the heart. Without preaching, Carter and Connelley weaves a musical landscape allowing one to feel the beauty and harmony of nature within one’s self. We like to call it “environmental music with a message”.

 

Australian Cuddle Dog and Lazy Boy Retriever

Curt Carter’s dogs – referred to by his wife as an ‘Australian Cuddle Dog’ and ‘Lazy Boy Retriever.’

http://carterandconnelley.com/

To celebrate the book (prematurely), and as a thank you to (local) friends and supporters, a ‘Launch Party’ has been organized.  Again, Sarah Kirk Douglas has lead the way, organizing production of tickets and raffle prizes!  There has been no shortage of prize donations and a wonderful group of people purchasing tickets to attend the party.

The Event will be held at Boston Pizza (Keswick, ON) and our MC/DJ for the evening is Manager, Shawn Parkinson.  Shawn has a way of getting everyone involved; entertainment and audience participaction.  Shawn came up with a number of ideas for the evenings festivities including a buffet meal of pizza, pasta, salads and other menu items – a selection to suit all!

Thank you for the prize donations (at time of post);

HENRY PET PRODUCTS

henrypets.com

FETCHING APPAREL

fetching-apparel.com

STELLA & DOT (independent stylist Amy Lazar Kleiman)

www.stelladot.com/amylazarkleiman

THE HAIR COMPANY SALON

http://thehaircompany.ca

BROOKS FARMS

www.brooksfarms.com

BRENDA’S GIFT BASKETS

https://www.facebook.com/BrendasBaskets?fref=ts

INNOVATEX

www.innovatex.ca

BOSTON PIZZA (Keswick)

www.bostonpizza.com

It warms my heart to know that so many people believe in, and support this cause.  I am very grateful to you all.

http://www.afriprov.org/index.php/african-proverb-of-the-month/23-1998proverbs/137-november-1998-proverb.html

Categories: FOR A CAUSE Tagged: Believe, Children, Dogs, Education, Faith, Hope, Safety, Trust

ready, steady, go

September 24, 2014 | 3 Comments

Mount Albert-142

I wrote my first book, at the age of 6, while sitting at my Grandparent’s kitchen table.  I should say I illustrated my first book, and dictated the story to a friend and member of my grandparents church – Jeannette Reome (sp?).  My Grandmother never minded me going to the cupboard and taking out her ‘fabric painting pens’ to use during visits.  I would spend hours squeezing measures of paint out of the tubes, and working the paint across the paper into whatever images came into my head on the day.

I don’t even remember what that first book was about; I enjoyed the process, and as my penmanship improved, I continued writing short stories and poems, on my own.

My biggest project to date and the one closest to my heart is a children’s book I wrote to teach youngsters how to introduce themselves to, and behave respectfully around dogs.  It has been a long process (I’m embarrassed to say, more than two years in the making).

I can now see the finish line.  If this lesson reaches only a hand full of children, I will feel victorious!

The following is a link to the campaign I created in order to raise the funds necessary to print the book, and start circulating the message.

http://www.igg.me/at/henrysayshello.com 

Please stay tuned for more stories about the creation and promotion of the children’s book ‘Henry says “Hello”

(random trivia)
Ready Steady Go!
(or simply RSG!) was a pioneering British rock/pop music television programme which used to air every Friday evening from August 1963 until 23 December 1966.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ready_Steady_Go!

Categories: FOR A CAUSE, OUR PACK Tagged: Best Friend, Dogs, Fun, Happy, Henry, Inspiration, Walk

SUMMER – POOL PARTIES

August 1, 2014 | 2 Comments

 

Let's get this party started!

Let’s get this party started!

What does one wear to a pool party?  If you’re a dog, I highly recommend this high quality, 100% weather resistant and totally waterproof collar by ‘Henry pet products’ (yes, we agree, it is a great company name).

Much research has gone into the making of this product.  The collars have also been vigorously tested by hardcore chewers and pullers, remaining intact and without a scratch or stretching.  Also tested through tough weather conditions, they have proven durable through Ontario winters and the heat and humidity of our summers.  Left outside for long periods, this product does not crack or fade.  Good thing as we love the vibrant pool party colours available; Hyper Orange, Hyper pink, and Hyper lime.  Royal Blue works too.   For other activities, there is also Olive green and Carbon.  The ‘no smell, quick dry’ quality makes the collars perfect for all occasions.

Good-buoy1-620x464 square

Cool Pool

Reese
Great looking, high-functioning collars for dogs!

http://henrypets.com

There is something completely alluring about the cool blue of a swimming pool, in the summer heat.  The way the reflection of light dances right out of the water.  I would be happy spending my days relaxing  in this tranquil environment, but I also love sharing it with friends.  Pool parties in the summer; vibrant coloured outfits and beverages (Cosmo cranberry, fruit punch red, vivid shades of orange, lemonade yellow and margarita lime)  against the blue and complimented further by lush greenery in the background.

 

The only thing missing is the music!

Here’s our poolside playlist – please comment adding your favourite summer song for the party (no explicit versions please):

1. Honey in The Sun – Camera Obscura (love the album art)

2. Put The Lime In The Coconut – Harry Nilsson

3. Will Smith – Summertime

4. Billy Idol – hot in the city

5. Bran Van 3000 – Drinkin in LA

6. Len – Steal My Sunshine

7. Will Smith – Welcome to Miami

8. Bob Marley – Three Little Birds

9. The Lovin’ Spoonful – Summer in the City

10. California Gurls – Katy Perry (feat. Snoop Dogg)

Pool

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received collars from HENRY PETS for posting an honest review of this product. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

 

Categories: PRODUCT & SERVICE REVIEWS Tagged: Beautiful, Dogs, Enjoy Life, Fun, Gifts

summer – fun in the sun

July 4, 2014 | 6 Comments

The Executive team at Must Luv Dogs

The Executive team at Must Luv Dogs

Many years ago, I watched the now iconic movie Gremlins.  I was probably too young, but everyone was talking about it so my dad treated my siblings and I to an outing at the cinema (that’s my story, and I’m sticking to it).  For those of you not old enough to remember, the 1984 horror-comedy was about an adorable little creature, a Mogwai, given to Billy Peltzer by his father.  Billy named his new little friend Gizmo and after being warned, Billy accepted the huge responsibility that comes with looking after him.  There are rules that Billy must follow; the Mogwai must be kept away from bright light, never made wet and never, ever feed them after midnight.  In the movie, things turn ugly when two of the three simple rules are not adhered to.

Much responsibility comes with dog-ownership too.  When my husband and I plan to be in and out of stores or offices, we leave the dogs at home where they will be comfortable.  We never leave them in the car in soaring summer temperatures – heat stroke occurs quickly, and nothing is worth that risk.  If we are outside, or spend time in the lake, we take them with us.  Henry and Reese, my little Mogwais, appear to be possessed and about to transform into Gremlins when introduced to a body of water.  They prefer to watch from the dock.  That said, even though they are groomed every five weeks in the summer due to their thick, curly coats, Henry and Reese are not fans of hot, humid days.  They prefer early morning, or late evening walks before the sun rises fully or just as its setting.  I was beginning to think my pack would have to become nocturnal until I learned about ‘Cool Coats’.

Valerie Wilson, owner and creator of this wonderful product, is also from Ontario and understands the heat and humidity.  When noticing her own beloved companions struggling in the heat, Valerie decided it was time to do something about it. “I searched everywhere for cool coats that were functional, stylish and durable. I bought many different styles of cooling coats and vests on the market and tested them all on my dogs and one by one, I ruled them out”.   With years of product development experience, Valerie set about researching leading edge materials to create coats initially for her own dogs.  “This was the only way to get exactly what I wanted.”  After finding a unique cooling material that was lightweight and would keep dogs cool and dry, Valerie designed a pattern and searched for ‘a top notch production facility that manufactures to high quality standards and got to work.’  In 2007, Cool Coats was born.  Today, Cool Coat customers include; owners and handlers of agility dogs, flyball dogs, conformation show dogs, breeders, groomers and companion family pets all over the world.  The coats fit a variety of sizes from Papillions to Great Danes, and is available in three gorgeous summer colours.

Saturday morning, we arranged to collect our coats from Valerie.  Valerie is passionate about her dogs, her business and her products and it shows.  I originally provided sizes via email and explained that Reese was not a typical size, due to her growth being stunted while living her first two years in a small cage (for those who don’t already know, Reese is a Puppy Mill rescue).  Valerie suggested physically trying the coats on to ensure a comfortable fit for both dogs and kindly offered to meet with us.

It was before 9:00 am when we set out, and the temperature was already nearing 30 degrees C (without factoring in the humidex factor!).  There was a trail not far from the location of our meeting that was at least shaded from direct sunlight by trees.  My parents were visiting as it was our Canada Day long weekend, and I thought it would be a nice outing for my mom and me with the dogs (our boys were fishing).  As soon as we got in the car I put the air conditioning on.  It does not make a difference straight away, and poor Henry was still panting when we arrived at our destination half an hour later.  In the future, Henry and Reese will be fitted with their cool coats prior to departure.

Valerie pulled her car up alongside ours, armed with several different coat sizes.  As she went about fitting and checked for adequate coverage on the fluffy mogwais, Valerie spoke to both Henry and Reese in a calm, assuring tone.  The material reminded me of a wet suit, and I learned it should fit in the same snug manner, keeping the ‘cool’ close to the body.

We stopped at Starbucks; mom grabbed tea and then I went in and soaked the coats, squeezed out the excess water and suited up the pups.  Before we had even pulled out of the parking lot, both dogs were ‘chilled out’ in the back seat.  The hatch had been open during the fitting, so this relaxed state had nothing to do with the air conditioning.  As well as keeping pups cool, Valerie pointed out that it’s fit, similar to that of our beloved Thundershirt, has proven cool coats to have a calming effect.

add water

chillin in the backseat

lifegaurds

dock dogs

hang to dry

 

My husband and I love spending time out in the beautiful summer weather.  We have noticed an incredible difference in both Henry and Reese during our walks and have modified the rules in relation to mogwais:

-Keep safe and cool and away from direct sunlight (shade is the best option)
-Add water as needed (often for hydration)
-Never, ever feed after midnight.  After a day of fun in the sun, we’re all sound asleep by midnight.

Thank you so much Valerie – your coats have made the difference between night and day (literally).

A note from the team at Must Luv Dogs:
Because we love dogs please remember…
-this product is not intended to prevent heatstroke
-it is not a life jacket and does not float
-do not leave your dog in the car under any circumstances
-always have fresh drinking water available for your dog


Why Cool Coats?

http://mustluvdogs.ca/why-buy/


Movie trivia:

My favourite quote from Gremlins:

Grandfather : He has something he wants to say to you.

Billy Peltzer : You mean you can understand what he says when he speaks?

Grandfather : To understand, one has only to listen.

It’s been three decades since the Steven Spielberg-produced Gremlins first hit theaters and both delighted and frightened an entire generation of kids and it’s being released as a digital download – a modern celebration of the film’s 30th anniversary.

http://www.buzzfeed.com/briangalindo/gremlins-star-zach-galligan-on-gremlins-at-30

Gremlins (1984) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087363/

Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990) http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0087363/

 

Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Dogs, Fun, Health, Summer

summer – hot dogs are for bbq’s

July 1, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Hot Dogs

‘Have you ever been to Woofstock?’ I was asked. The event, full of vendors sharing information and products for dogs and their people is described as ‘a large outdoor festival designed for dogs and the people who love them. The event has entertainment, contests and a consumer showcase. Vendors offer up the latest in canine fashions, furnishings, products and food, and contests unleash the best mutts in every size, breed and pedigree. Sadly, for me, the event conjures up the memory of a tragedy which followed the event in 2012. On the way home from Woofstock, a young woman stopped at Vaughan Mills shopping centre and left her dog in the hot car. Her dog died.

“A couple leaving their dog in the car on a day that hot is inconceivable and extremely irresponsible,” founder (of Woofstock) Marlene Cook said in a statement emailed to media following the tragedy.

Another reason I have never attended the event; in addition, to being held in mid-June, Woofstock had also taken place in Toronto’s downtown area. This may be fine for humans with soles to their shoes, however not pleasant for dogs walking in the summer heat, along the scorching hot pavement. One way dogs attempt to cool down is through the pads of their feet.

This year however, I am very pleased to learn the event has moved and occurred at the end of May in Woodbine Park, near the beach.” Now it will be as much fun for the dogs as it is their people.

Sadly, some dog owners are still unaware, or choose to ignore the effects of heat on their companions. Too many dogs succumb to heat stroke when it could have been avoided. Dogs pant to exchange warm air for cool air. When air temperature is close to body temperature, cooling by panting is not an efficient process. The inside of a car on a hot day far surpasses the body temperature.
Heat stroke is a very serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Once the signs of heat stroke are detected, there is precious little time before serious damage – or even death – can occur. If a dog cannot effectively expel heat, the internal body temperature begins to rise. Once the dog’s temperature reaches 106°, damage to the body’s cellular system and organs may become irreversible.

I do not understand why people are willing to the chance and put their companions at risk. Nothing can be worth causing such discomfort or torture, and the possibility of death. It is up to us to keep them safe.

Hot dogs are for BBQ’s. Please leave your dogs at home or stay in the air conditioned car with them – someone can run into the store for you. If you’re on your own, don’t stop!

Be vigilant – look for the following signs of distress and act quickly to prevent heatstroke:
•Unusual breathing – rapid and loud
•High rectal temperature (see how to take this below)
•Extreme thirst
•Weakness and/or fatigue
•Frequent vomiting
•Disorientation
•A bright red tongue and pale gums
•Skin around muzzle or neck doesn’t snap back when pinched
•Difficulty breathing
•Collapse or coma
•Thick saliva
•Increased heart rate

Signs of burned pads:
•limping or refusing to walk
•licking or chewing at the feet
•pads darker in color
•missing part of pad
•blisters or redness

http://www.woofstock.ca/

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/sudbury/overheated-dog-died-on-way-home-from-woofstock-1.1146056

http://www.akcchf.org/canine-health/your-dogs-health/caring-for-your-dog/dehydration-and-overheating.html

http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/06/24/overheating.aspx

http://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Heat-Stroke-in-Dogs

http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/diseasesconditionsfaqs/qt/hotfeet.htm

Categories: FOR A CAUSE, HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Care, Dogs, Protect, Responsible

summer – sunsets

June 22, 2014 | Leave a Comment

Sunset

Just beyond the sunset
Someone waits for me
Just beyond the sunset
Lies my destiny
Where the purple mountains
Lie in deep tranquillity
There I’ll find the treasure
Of love eternally

Just beyond the sunset
Waits someone so fair
Just beyond the sunset
All alone they wait there
Their hair is golden
The colour of the sand
Their eyes sparkle in the night
Like diamonds in your hand

Just beyond the sunset
Lies a home for me
Where the world is peaceful
Like a paradise should be
Just beyond the sunset
Someday is where you’ll find me

David Harris

Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: Beautiful, Dogs, Happy

VIVIAN’S ART

June 18, 2014 | 2 Comments

I fist had the pleasure of meeting Vivian through blogging.  I love that on her blog, Viv shows us how she creates her beautiful works of art – more than a glimpse into the process.  Below, I have put together a gallery of some of her pieces.  Thank you Vivian for sharing.








What inspires you?

Inspiration for me can come in any form. I mostly paint animals and particularly like trying to capture a moment in time or a certain expression the animal may have. For me the challenge is to try to capture a bit of the subject’s personality in paint.

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?

My favorite subject is animals. More specifically dogs and cats. The unique relationships between a dog or a cat and their human companions always intrigues me. These two species have been domesticated in a way that no other animal has. It really amazes me just how closely humans can work with dogs in so many areas of life and work and how much companionship a cat can bestow on people of any age.

What is your preferred medium, why?

I work in watercolor, pastel and acrylic. Watercolor is really my favorite medium. It has taken me years to learn how to manipulate the paint to get the results I like but the time and effort has been worth it. I love the translucent quality of the paint and the way the white of paper making it seem to glow. This glowing quality is very beautiful when doing an animal’s eyes where most of the emotion and personality is expressed.

Where is your favourite place to paint?

Recently I converted my formal dining room into a studio. I have a large eat in type kitchen for entertaining so the formal dining room was never used. I love painting here because I have a huge double window that overlooks my backyard. I have a small pond I can see from my window as well as all the birds, squirrels and chipmunks that visit my bird feeders. I have painted some of the birds that frequented my feeders. Our winter was particularly cold this year and one of the squirrels would actually come to my window and look for me when the feeder was empty! I am I am going to paint him next!

Is there anything (else) you would like people to know about Vivian?

For me painting is all about emotional connections. Connecting to your subject, your client and the viewer. I enjoy creating something special for my clients that will last a lifetime. There is nothing that makes me happier than to succeed in making these connections and pleasing the people that enjoy my work. The biggest thrill is when I know I have done my job well and perhaps made a friend along the way.

Artist’s favourite colour?

RED. I love red. Oddly enough I rarely use red in my paintings. It is such a strong and vibrant color a little goes a long way.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ViviansART?ref=si_shop

http://viviansart.typepad.com/my-blog/2014/04/dogwood-demo.html

Categories: WORKS OF ART Tagged: Beautiful, Cats, Create, Dogs, Feline Friends, Inspiration

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Another way to print and display your digital port Another way to print and display your digital portrait: 8x12 standout with white edges. Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
One way to print and display your digital portrait One way to print and display your digital portrait. Matter print displayed in wood block. 
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
That's a wrap! Finally caught up on posting portra That's a wrap! Finally caught up on posting portraits from this initiative. Thank you to everyone who participated and supported Finley Cat Rescue.
#westilldo #virtualwedding Digital portraits creat #westilldo #virtualwedding
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
On the 12th day of Christmas... #12daysofchristmas On the 12th day of Christmas...
#12daysofchristmas
Finally got caught up! Thank you for your patience.
#covidengagement Digital portraits created to rais #covidengagement
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
On the 11th day of Christmas... #12daysofchristmas On the 11th day of Christmas...
#12daysofchristmas
#covidwedding Digital portraits created to raise f #covidwedding
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescu Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
Together forever in my heart Digital portraits cr Together forever in my heart 
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
On the 10th day of Christmas... #12daysofchristmas On the 10th day of Christmas...
#12daysofchristmas
Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescu Digital portraits created to raise funds for rescue efforts. #animalart #animalrescue #animalwelfare
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