family pawtrait special order

the real-life inspiration:

last month i completed a unique extra special special order. i was commissioned to create a family "pawtrait" of a loving couple, Darin + Nancy and their 2 cats to celebrate Nancy's big 60th birthday. it was to be the centerpiece (main gift) of a party aptly themed "life's a bear". i used tie dye mohair for Darin to represent his tattoos. the bears/ cats sit atop the family lily pad. as i was nearing completion of the set, Darin informed me of some exciting news! they just adopted an italian greyhound pup and asked if i could include him in the portrait too. so i came up with a totally new mini dog design, and was pretty pleased with the results (their pup is pictured top right, bottom left pic i googled for additional reference):

t'was an honor and delight to create Darin + Nancy's bear family portrait!

if you would like a one of a kind bear-portrait of your loved ones for a special gift or occasion, please contact me.
p.s. i will be working on more little pooches for valentine's update ❦