This portrait is of my Molly’s mirror image, Andi. I painted it for a couple who commissioned me for another portrait of their sweet Andi. I loved this pose that came through among several other reference shots, and on a whim painted it as well. Because this couple was so devoted to their pup I gave it to them free of charge as an extra gift. Kathi was our sponsor from YGRR when we were being considered for adopting Molly in 2018, and she helped clear the way for us to have Molly in our lives. It struck us all how much Andi and Molly looked alike - they could’ve been sisters.
I found out today from Kathi that their beloved Andi fell sick out of the blue a week ago and they have to let her go this afternoon. My heart is broken for them - this couple were so thrilled with the portraits and so crazy about their girl - she is only 7.
I am so very thankful that I can share my love of painting to memorialize and honor the lives of the most beautiful, loving and innocent souls on earth with their families, but I know that a painting doesn’t hold a candle to the lives that end way too soon. I hope when portraits hang on the wall it’s a reminder of a life well loved and well lived, however brief.
I wish Andi a peaceful journey across the rainbow bridge knowing she was loved so very much.
