In 2017, after 20 years of teaching Art to middle schoolers, I chose to finally “be an artist” like I always dreamed. Working as a professional artist from home in South Kansas City, I lovingly handcraft acrylic paintings of pets. Pet parents, friends and family of pet parents, animal advocates, art collectors, and more usually discover me in my booth at an art fair in Kansas City. They see my array of ideas, fun colors, silly compositions, and of course, pets on the walls of my booth. Many folks will reach out afterward to commission a custom painting of a beloved pet to give as a gift or to keep and enjoy in their own home. At this point, I’ve painted over 300 pets and shipped their portraits nationwide! I have a great respect of animals and enjoy capturing our emotional connection with them. Their imprint on our lives is often unparalleled and I like to think I provide one way to honor that attachment and love. My husband and I are currently sharing our lives with a rescue pup called Razzle B. Dazzle. He’s a little weirdo we’re proud to call our child. We all like to explore the outdoors and travel. And yes, Razzle is limited by his little legs, so sometimes he explores while in a pack on my back! Sharing my joy among the pet and the art communities is my mission. I hope that includes you and your working community.