Gilbert 12 x 12 Acrylic on Canvas

I was recently commissioned to paint a dog with an exceptional story. In 2004, Gilbert was shot, run over, and left on a secluded road. He was rescued, and after 8 months in rehabilitation, was adopted. Gilbert recently passed away, after living a happy new life. Leanne had never met the owner, or Gilbert, but wanted to help. Here is more about Gilbert's story, and the link to Leanne's post on the Squamish Random Acts of Kindness page. This is not the first instance I've heard of Leanne helping others in need. Thank you Leanne Hodge for your loving heart and generous acts of kindness - we need more people like you in our world xo

 Squamish Random Acts of Kindness Facebook Page

Gilbert's Story 
 

Bailey 12 x 12 Acrylic on Canvas

I love that my friend chose a puppy photo for her commemorative portrait of her sweet Bailey. Even though she looks cute, she gave me quite a battle, and it took me three different tries until I felt that I had it "right'.  I'm glad I kept starting over, as I really like the fresh, loose strokes of the background with the different colours poking through, and I think she still looks pretty cute,

Pearl 10x10 Acrylic on Canvas

I confess the process of listing, and selling my house, hasn't exactly helped get my creative juices flowing. When this happens, I often will revisit some of my favorite reference photos. It's easier to take risks when I'm already in my comfort zone, and I see it as an opportunity to explore colours and values. Not to mention I just have a "thing" for labs,

Sad Puppy 12 x 12 Acrylic on Raised Canvas

I  should have called this painting perseverance (I almost did ). I've probably tried this reference photo seven different times - I feel like I could keep tweaking the values over and over. I love the expression on this one, and will try another one sometime soon (even if it's just to see if I can do it again),