Smyrna Vinings' own Brooke Shaw has found her niche in the art world, specializing in pet portraits that capture the unique essence of our furry friends. With a background steeped in European fine arts, Brooke's journey began with whimsical anthropomorphic animal paintings before evolving into the creation of lovingly crafted pet portraits.
Brooke's process is as unique as the animals she portrays. "I prefer to paint a pet portrait in layers, without sketching it first," she explains. "This gives me a feeling of discovering all the special little details of the animal as I puzzle them together." Her focus on the fine details of eyes, ears, and expressions brings each portrait to life, resulting in hyper realistic miniatures that have become her signature style.
The artist's talent for capturing a pet's essence has led to some intriguing commissions. One of her most challenging projects involved painting two hairless Sphynx cats, one of which had only one eye. Brooke embraced the task, demonstrating her ability to convey the cats' intense gazes despite their unusual appearance. "I've learned it's much more impactful to evoke the spirit of the subject, rather than to drive myself crazy over details," she shares. This philosophy allows her to create pieces that truly resonate with pet owners.
The emotional impact of Brooke's work is evident in the reactions of her clients. "Pet owners are always overjoyed to see their beloved pet as a piece of art to show in their home," she says. Memorial portraits, in particular, hold a special place in her heart, providing comfort to those who have lost a cherished companion.
As Brooke's artistry continues to evolve, she's expanding her repertoire to include larger, more stylized works incorporating people and nature alongside animals. However, her passion for capturing the essence of pets remains at the core of her art, ensuring that each piece is a unique and cherished representation of the bond between animals and their human families.
See more of Brooke's work on Instagram: @AStoryTail, and contact her at Brooke.Bateh@gmail.com.