Oil on canvas, 24”x30”

This painting was for a friend, of their beloved dog, and I was immediately taken by the photo reference…she was completely upside down, wearing the kind of goofy, joyful smile that makes dogs so irresistible. I rarely paint animals or people from this angle, which made this piece both a creative challenge and an absolute pleasure to work on.

Her expression captured something so simple and pure: playfulness, love, and total trust. It reminded me of the beautiful ways animals teach us to be present and open-hearted. I think that’s why this painting stands out to me as one of my most unique and successful portraits—it radiates happiness.