When We Lose A Pet

It’s not only that they leave us too soon, it’s that they leave us alone with our imperfect selves. We will never have their grace, their capacity for forgiveness. We will never be as good at being alive.

Pet Portrait

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A dear friend commissioned me to paint this 5×7 portrait of his beloved spaniel. I began to love this dog as I rendered his image, which is something that happens every time I paint: with care and focus comes love. Instead of taking payment, I asked my friend to make a donation to the Animal Welfare Institute. In this way we all win. I am eager to do more of these portraits, each one a small contribution to the healing of this world.