Stray Dog Arts

well, hellloooooo out there!

2011-12-09T12:03:00.002-06:00

It's been pretty quite around here at this ol' blog. Not for lack of things to say, but precisely the opposite! So much goodness has been happening in my art-filled life these past many months. I look forward to getting back onto the saddle of blogging in the near future.

In the meantime, happy day to you!!! I'm hereby taking the feather duster to the Stray Dog Arts blog.

May all dogs (and cats and horses and YOU!) be happy!!

~

Inerviewed:

2011-10-25T21:44:00.004-05:00

I just stumbled upon this interview from April of 2010 in the files of my computer. By golly, I don't even remember who the interview was with, but I loved reading it and can't help but share it again here! Since this interview, there are some things that have evolved, but at the core of my work, at its essence, there is still that same feeling--a sense of satisfaction and purpose that is just beyond language. Distill it down and there is a word for it and it is: LOVE.

Enjoy the interview!

1. What inspired/motivated you to want to do this?
You can read more about what inspired me to do this by visiting my artist statement, here.

2. When did you do your first animal painting? When did you sell your first painting?
I painted my first dog in January, 2008. I showed my first series of dog paintings in March of the same year. Half of those portraits sold and I received several new commissions in the process. I sold my first painting in 2003 during my Senior Art Exhibition, a requirement for my art degree. I also gathered steam by selling on Etsy, an online artist's site, did mural painting, and also worked as the in-house artist at Wild Rumpus, a strange and wonderful children's bookstore in Minneapolis.

3. How do you market yourself?
Bark magazine, postcards, partnerships with other businesses, networking, social media (facebook and twitter), Etsy, Flickr, blogging, art fairs, events, and art exhibitions in public spaces. I also sell my work (originals and products) in retail spaces and boutiques. Branding, authenticity and product eye-candy goes an amazingly long way. A lot can be done--even on a tight budget. I love watching things come to life. I put a lot of effort into marketing partially because it's so important, but also because it's something I really enjoy.

4. Where do your 'clients' come from?
When starting out, I had clients from all over the country. California, New York, Florida...all over. Internationally, I've painted for clients in Ireland, Canada, and Australia. However, over the last year, the majority of my clients are from the Minneapolis area. This is largely due to projects that focus on particular neighborhoods in the Minneapolis area. I love getting to meet the dogs and their companions in person as well as take my own photos. Because of this, I've realized how much I enjoy painting locally and, therefore, have shifted my energy and marketing accordingly. Who knows, this will probably continue to evolve. I'm beginning to imagine more travel in my future. For now, I have more than enough to keep me busy right here.

5. What type of animals have you painted?
I mostly paint dog portraits, but really enjoy painting cats as well. I am endlessly inspired by the unique qualities of dogs. As for cats, well, I love their beautiful eyes. To date, dogs and cats are the extent of my painted animal menagerie. I've also been wanting to start painting horses for quite some time now, but have been so busy painting dogs that there just hasn't been time to do so. Everything happens at the right time though. I think the idea of painting horses has been incubating, slowly making itself visible in my mind's eye. Whatever I'm painting, it's a lot of fun to see the work evolve--both inwardly and outwardly.

6. How many painting do you average in a week?
I've come to terms with the fact that the paintings come in waves. There is a lot more to being a full time artist than simply making art--much more than most people realize. At any given time I am managing over 50 commissions, emails, marketing, bookkeeping, phone calls, event planning, project preparation, errand running, packaging and shipping, online shop management...um, you know, pretty much the whole gambit of what makes a business tick successfully. I tend to get really focused and will work really hard on the business end of things for several days or even a couple of weeks and do the same with painting. I work well under pressure and with deadlines and do my best to structure a time-line that works with everything else that's going on. Switching things up like this keeps things fresh for me. When I'm away from the studio for any length of time, it always feels especially good to get back to the paint. I average about 75 paintings a year, many of which are quite large. Not sure how many I paint per week, but I'm pretty sure that this is what they mean by "prolific." :)-

7. How long do most paintings take?
Anywhere from a couple days to a week, or even a month. I tend to work in long stretches with lots of tiny breaks throughout. It's not unusual for me to paint for 12-18 hours a day. I didn't start out being able to work this way, but it's become a habit that I actually enjoy. I get in a groove and want to see it through. I've also come to accept the fact that I can't put a number to how many hours it takes me to do a painting. There are too many variables--the dog's hair, the lighting, the colors, the background details, the size. In art school I was taught to be able to track my time, but I've given up. A painting might take me anywhere from 10-40 hours or more--except when it doesn't. ;)

Working mostly on commission adds another element to the whole notion of time. I need to factor in emails, photo shoots, phone consultations, canvas prep, drawing and all the other things that go into a painting before I even pick up a brush. All said and done, a commissioned painting can be anywhere from several months to a year in the making. It's a pretty cool process, actually. A lot of relationship building happens in that time and by the time I'm done with an animal's portrait, I truly feel like their life has affected mine in a very deep and meaningful way.

8. Are there any paintings you have done that have especially touched your heart?
There are several dogs that have had an extremely profound effect on me, my life, and the direction of my art. But, over all, I have to say that I truly fall in love with every single animal that I've painted. I'm a sucker for dog-love and it catches me off guard every time. Sometimes I wonder how it's possible to love this much. Through painting, I get to know an animal on a very deep level and, because of this, I suffer from love-overwhelm. Sometimes I'm afraid I might melt or explode or disintegrate, but it's an occupational hazard that I'm totally willing to live with.

9. Describe some of the emotions you feel while painting.
Love. The most consistent and powerful emotion that I feel while painting is, by far, love. I often feel the love that the animal has for his or her human companion as well as the love they have for each other. It's pretty amazing actually. As weird as it might sound, I truly feel that, through painting, I become a conduit for the emotions of the animal I'm painting. Sometimes I feel a sense of gentleness. Other times I feel happiness, playfulness, inquisitiveness, sweetness...whatever the animal seems to be feeling, I feel it too. Beneath any of these emotions is always love--and that is something I never, ever get tired of.

10. How, on a bad day, do you stay motivated to continue working to meet your deadlines?
I just don't allow bad days to derail me. I wasn't always like this, but my love for what I do is stronger than the curve balls that bad days might throw at me. I've taught myself to move through whatever might threaten to hold me back--whether it be tiredness, frustration, anxiety, apathy, rain, barking dogs, telemarketers...it doesn't matter. Focusing on those things only makes it worse and if I waited around for perfect conditions, I'd never get anything done. Anyway, I usually find that the work itself tends to fix anything that is throwing me off course. I also find that it helps me to stay inspired and motivated by paying attention to little pleasures such as the smell of a fresh cup of coffee, the muffle-puffin sounds of snoring dogs, or my sun-drenched workbench. If all else fails, a walk in the woods with the dogs or a double espresso will usually put me back in workable groove. That groove is nice place to be and is easier to reach the more I practice it.

11. How has pursuing this dream changed your life?
More like: how hasn't it changed my life? Oy! Pursuing my dream and watching it succeed has made it impossible for me to even consider anything less than fully living my purpose. To be honest, it can be kind of scary--after all, I have a lot to lose now that I've experienced what it feels like to be living and working from the center of my heart. Pursuing my dream has required a hearty combination of determination and inspiration. It has also taught me that everything is possible--for anyone. First we need to imagine it. Then we need to take action. I am constantly nudging myself forward into new territory. It is exhaustive and exhilarating all at once! Eleanor Roosevelt once said: "Do one thing every day that scares you." Those are words I live by. Those are the words that changed my life and pushed me to start living my dream. There's no going back now!

a little Peanut...

2011-05-24T01:59:00.004-05:00

Putting the final touches on a painting that is soon to be delivered. There will be a lot of late
nights in the coming week. But, let's face it: this is when my best work happens.
"Peanut" :: in progress

A little bit about the painting: This is "Peanut," a sweet little Chihuahua who's walked a rough road, but once she was adopted, found love of the best kind. Dogs are such complex and beautiful beings. We all are, really. Painting just gives me the deep spaces of observation to notice.

"Peanut" :: 18" x 24" :: Oil on Canvas :: Commissioned

wolfie happiness...

2011-05-11T01:53:00.002-05:00

Sat down on the floor to take a photo and my wolfie girl, Anu, came to help. She makes me SO happy. I can't help but smile all over again, just looking at this photo. I'm sharing it here because maybe it will make you smile, too. :)

with wolfie love,
Jessie and Anu

"Further On Up the Road" :: what if we are all just a work in process?

2011-04-12T01:27:00.000-05:00

Inspiration is:

Ronin
In the flesh and fur, with painting.
48" x 48" :: Oil on Canvas

~

saying bon voyage to "Big Love"

2011-03-16T11:46:00.001-05:00

"Big Love" has hereby been SOLD! Today I sold one of my most very favorite paintings I've ever done. It has now been delivered to its new home--and such a perfect home, it is! Even so, a proper goodbye was in order. I'm not sad, because I know that there are many more where this one came from...but it felt necessary to soak in as much of its color, love and inspiration as possible.

"Big Love" taught me how important it is to trust my instincts and to make sure that I allow time to occasionally paint just for myself. That is, after all, where the best paintings come from!

36" x 48" :: Oil on Canvas

I have a little self portrait side-project that's been filling me with inspiration. Wanna take a peek?

2011-03-11T19:24:00.003-06:00

my wolfie girl, anu, and i shared a joy-filled moment in the studio together after playing in the snow. my dogs bring unexpected amounts of happiness into my life and today was no exception. welcome to a moment in my love-filled life. love fills all of our lives--the trick is simply in noticing it.

Diary of a Self Portrait :: 365 Days of Self Portraits :: A Challenge

my Flickr set

Project Love :: A Painting a Day :: "Nixon" :: Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello

2011-02-05T21:41:00.004-06:00

Project Love :: A Painting a Day :: Recent works by Jessie Marianiello

"Nixon" :: 20"x40" :: Oil on Canvas {Sold}

Project Love :: A Painting a Day :: "Addie and Ellie" :: Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello

2011-02-04T10:28:00.007-06:00

"Addie and Ellie"

20"x 30" Oil on Canvas {Sold}

Addie (and her dear squeaky elephant toy friend, Ellie) are nestled in a very particular spot in my heart and always will be. Whenever I think of her or look at her painted image, I feel a tight little knot inside of me, the size of a rose bud, exuding a concentrated feeling of bright, pure love. Although this is a strange description of love...I must admit, it is a truly beautiful feeling. It tugs at me and infuses me all at the same time.

I love Addie. Her and her mama hold a very deep place in my heart. Addie was part of my recent exhibition, BULLDOG. She's touched my life in more profound ways than she could ever know. And I know I'm not the only one.

* * *

These paintings were not created in just one day, rather over the course of many days, weeks and months. I've been so busy painting that I haven't had a chance to share the finished work until now! I'm excited to finally be sharing these images.

Read more about Project Love :: A Painting a Day here.

Project Love :: A Painting a Day :: "Roman" :: Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello

2011-02-03T11:54:00.011-06:00

"Roman"

20" x 30" :: Oil on Canvas :: {sold}

Meet Roman, the tennis-ball-loving black Lab! Roman's portrait was commissioned by Keith and Trycia Miller, of Pampered Pooch Playground in St. Louis Park, MN. Pampered Pooch Playground is a great friend of Stray Dog Arts. And my dogs consider Keith and Trycia to be nothing less than FAMILY! Needless to say, I was more than happy to paint a portrait of Roman to be given as a Christmas gift to Trycia's sister.

As many of you might already know, I have a thing about painting tennis balls. Honestly, I'm in love with the beauty, color, and simplicity of those round, slobbery things! Combine it with a cool looking dog and I was in dog-painting heaven!

This is the second portrait I've painted for the Millers. In 2009 I painted a portrait of their own dog, Roxy, a Bernese Mountain Dog, whose painting greets all who enter the lobby of Pampered Pooch. My dogs give Pampered Pooch Playground an ALL-PAWS-UP rating (they love going there soooo much!!!) and I love painting for them just as much!

These days, I've really been enjoying the ways in which my painting is evolving. I love painting for clients on numerous occasions. A special sort of relationship is formed through the act of painting for someone. It is a relationship built on trust and inspiration--and, in my opinion, these are the best sorts of relationships to have.

Read more about Project Love :: A Painting a Day here.

The Big Launch! :: Project Love :: A Painting a Day :: "Wyatt" :: Recent works by Jessie Marianiello

2011-02-02T11:38:00.014-06:00

I hereby proclaim February to be LOVE MONTH!

Oooooh, yeah. Doesn't it feel good?! Project Love is absolutely inspired by the fact that Valentine's Day falls right smack dab in the middle of a great month, but also because I've decided that only one day of celebrating love simply isn't enough!

In honor of all this luuuuv, I've decided that it is time to share some of my most recent works. Long overdue, to be sure! With two solo exhibitions and a highly fueled commission schedule in the past year, I have a lot to share with you!

I will be sharing a painting a day, every day, for the month of February and beyond!

These paintings were not created

in just one day, rather over the course of many days, weeks and months. I've been so busy painting that I haven't had a chance to share the finished work! I'm excited to finally show you what I've been working on over the past year. There has been so much art-loving, four-legged GOODNESS!!!

To kick off Project Love :: A Painting a Day, I introduce to you the most energetic, kissable Boxer in the Universe: Wyatt! I was commissioned to paint Wyatt's portrait as a Christmas gift from Wyatt's mama to his papa. The secret got out of the bag a little earlier than it was meant to, but it was an incredibly fun gift, nonetheless. The process started with a photo shoot this past summer and ended in a 30"x 40" Oil on Canvas, painted portrait.

Working on Wyatt's portrait was a complete and absolute JOY. The colors and composition inspired me on the deepest downest soul level--from the inside out! It always amazes me how, even when I paint until my fingers are about ready to fall off (as pictured), I can still feel so incredibly joy-filled by what emerges from the canvases. Seriously JOY-FILLED!!!

I occasionally ask myself, "What would I do if I could do anything?" My answer always comes back to the work I am currently doing and, for that, I am beyond thankful. Painting causes me to feel extraordinary amounts of love in a million ways--and it also allows me to experience intense inspiration on a daily basis.

What would I do if I could do anything? I would do this.

And so, in honor of LOVE and all the good things that come from it, I look forward to sharing the images and paintings that have filled my days.

HAPPY LOVE MONTH...and beyond!

with more dog love than I know what to do with,

Jessie

xoxo

"Wyatt" :: 30"x 40" Oil on Canvas

HURRY! And Enter to WIN!!! :: Fundraiser and BADASS Giveaway! :: Be a rockstar, support Bulldog rescue!

2010-12-05T17:05:00.006-06:00

Badass prizes include:

Dinner at The Bulldog Restaurant (NE)
Doggie delectables from Bone Adventure
Artwork by Jessie Marianiello (that's me!)...and more!

Tickets Available At:

ALL Bone Adventure Locations! :: NE Mpls, Edina, & Wayazata :: Now through Dec 22nd!

Tickets are $10 each. Buy one, buy many!

About The Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network (BCARN):

The BCA Rescue Network, Inc. is a non-profit organization with IRS 501(c)(3) status. They are made up of many volunteers nationwide who love the Bulldog breed and are dedicated to its continued well-being. The volunteers find new homes for more than 1,000 Bulldogs per year. Many thousands of dollars are spent to provide medical care, food, shelter, and training while the rescued Bulldogs are awaiting adoption.

BCARN in Minnesota is a local group of Bulldog Club of America Rescue Network volunteers. For more information about Bulldog Rescue go to:www.rescuebulldogs.org

A Collaborative Fundraising Project Present by:
Sidewalk Dog, The Bulldog, Bone Adventure, BCARN, and Stray Dog Arts

Hey Bulldog, with love from the Stray Dog Arts studio...

2010-11-07T14:32:00.002-06:00

BULLDOG :: Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello :: You're Invited!!

2010-09-25T18:19:00.005-05:00

Mark your calenders!
I'm currently in the midst of preparing for a ROCKSTAR of an event
and YOU'RE INVITED!

Join us for a night of serious celebration, be among the first to see my most recent series of work AND meet Bulldog participants in the flesh and fur!

:: BULLDOG ::
Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello

The Bulldog Restaurant {Northeast}

401 East Hennepin Avenue

Minneapolis, MN

OPENING RECEPTION:
Friday, November 12 · 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Showing November 12th-December 22nd

Artist Statement:
As an artist, I find extraordinary amounts of pleasure in following the sparks and threads of inner energy. Inspiration shows up when least expected and, this time around it led me towards some serious Bulldog l-u-v.

This project includes the painted portraits of 15 remarkable Bulldogs--from English to French to American to Olde Eglish, and even a couple Bulldog mixes. What fascinates me most is how absolutely unique each one is from the next. Inside and out, every single Bulldog I've met is truly a BADDASS original!

This event is free and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC...
Bring your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors!

~

Echo Lives On.

2010-09-24T21:52:00.031-05:00

"Echo In Edina" {Diptych} :: 40"x 60" :: Oil on Canvas

It's been a long time since I've blogged. Too long, actually. Not for lack of things to write about, rather the opposite. Time moves quickly and my days have been filled heartily to the brim. There has been a whirlwind of activity for the past many months...but today I feel the need to push the pause button and make space to remember a very special dog. A dog named "Echo."

I met Echo and her dog-mom, Molly, a fellow dog lover and owner of Metro Pets and More, about two years ago. I was, of course, instantly smitten by both Echo's size and beauty. I could not help but WANT TO PAINT THIS DOG!!

I've lost track of the time-line between 'meeting' and 'doing,' but finally I got my chance. Molly and I scheduled a meet-up in Edina and, as dusk settled in and the lights of the Edina theater sign turned on, the photo shoot began. If I remember right, it was early spring. The part I know for sure is that I fell in love. Echo was a big dog who, very quickly, took up an equally big part of my heart.

I painted Echo's portrait simply for the sheer inspiration of it and, due to a tightly booked commissions schedule, her portrait took over a year to complete. I worked on it whenever possible. The first brush strokes were made in the original Stray Dog Arts studio (the basement of a rented house) near downtown Minneapolis....

{"Echo In Edina" in progress, spring 2009}

{"Echo In Edina" in progress, original Stray Dog Arts studio, spring 2009}

...and completed in my current studio located on a vineyard in Southern Minnesota. Echo's portrait spent a very long time in my studios. She kept me and my own dogs company and, well, she just sort of started to feel like a part of the family. The longer I worked on Echo's portrait, the more I fell in love with her. She became someone very special to me.

{Current Stray Dog Arts studio, early spring 2010}

In May of this past year, Echo's portrait became part of a major solo exhibition, the Dogs of Edina. She also graced the front of the postcards created for the show, became the poster-dog for ArtBARK!, an art contest and fundraiser for The Pet Project, and was, hands down, one of the most important pieces in the exhibition.

{Echo's portrait, Molly, and me :: Dogs of Edina exhibition
May, 2010 :: Galleria :: Edina, MN}

I have a couple of painterly obsessions in life. One is (obviously) dogs. And another is vintage signage. I love lights and grunge and metal. I also enjoy creating a 'sense of place.' In deciding how to paint Echo's portrait, I became inspired by the compositional lines and colors: the Edina Theater sign, the buildings and Echo herself seemed to be having a conversation. The two panels "echoed" each other and I could not help but be inspired to create a diptych. Composition and lines and color aside, my favorite part to paint was her eye. It's difficult to describe--but, to me, it contained a glimpse into Everything.

Echo's painting has become something of an Edina icon. To me, Echo herself will always be an icon. She taught me how important it is to occasionally take time to paint just for myself. She taught me how to fill my own well of inspiration. And, like many dogs, she taught me about love. Echo has held a place in my heart for a long time. She took up a lot of room in my studio. She became familiar to me in a way that I can only compare to the comfortable familiarity I have with my own dogs.

Echo passed away of old age this past June. It was heart-breaking news for everyone that knew her. And yet--I know that she was loved. She was loved beyond loved. As I write this, tears come to my eyes and I am swept away by the immense feeling of that love. They are not sad tears. They are the sort of tears that make me feel thankful for the gift of Echo in my life.

Yesterday was a very special day because Echo's portrait was delivered to an incredible new home where she can be enjoyed and remembered for many years to come. In true iconic fashion, Echo's portrait was purchased by Brian Fulmer, and will be displayed at Bone Adventure's Edina location. Bone Adventure has been serving dog families for over 20 years and has 3 stores in Edina, NE Minneapolis and Wayzata. The Fulmer family--Brian, Gabie, Graham and Logan-- also hold a very special place in my heart and I am beyond grateful that Echo's portrait has found its way to such a perfect space where her painting will be seen by many.

I want to send a special thank you to Molly Engler, Echo's dog-mom, for giving me the opportunity to paint and get to know this sweet spirit. I want to say thank you to Bone Adventure for giving her portrait the perfect place to shine on.

And, mostly, I want to say thank you to Echo. She's gone, but she's never really gone. She had a big body and an even bigger heart. Knowing her changed me for the better--as a person, as an artist, as a dog lover.

Echo lives on in so many ways....

Namaste, sweet girl.
You were and always will be very, very loved.

Dogs of Edina spends time on Fox 9 News with MA Rosko!

2010-05-06T12:19:00.001-05:00

You're Cordially Invited! :: Opening Reception this Thursday!

2010-05-05T06:16:00.005-05:00

Thursday, May 6th is the big day {Opening Night!} and you are cordially invited to be the first to see! We'll be opening the doors to Dogs of Edina exhibition at 5pm. Live music, food, wine, friends, and whole lot of new artwork! This project has been such an incredible experience. And now...

It's time to celebrate!

Opening Reception:

Dogs of Edina

Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello
A Celebration of Dogs and the Community They Create

WHEN
Thursday, May 6th
5-7pm
(exhibition runs May 6th-31st)

WHERE
Galleria
Between Louis Vuitton and Big Bowl in the center's west end
69th & France
Edina, Minnesota

Talk2theAnimals :: Paws4Pets :: A Fundraiser Event to Benefit Red Lake Rosie's Rescue!

2010-04-28T19:22:00.004-05:00

Paws4Pets and help the animals at Red Lake Rosie's Rescue! Enjoy an evening with Talk2theAnimals for animal communication, view the art work of Stray Dog Arts, and meet Angel Animal authors Linda and Allen Anderson. There's a raffle, including exciting prizes from: The Galleria, Stray Dog Arts, Chuck and Don's, The Westin Galleria, and more! Bring a donation for Red Lake Rosie's Rescue and take away an evening of doggone fun!

Event Hosted by Talk2theAnimals!

Join Us:
Thursday, May 13th
5-8pm
Dogs of Edina Gallery at the Galleria
(between Louis Vuitton and Big Bowl in the center's west end)

Red Lake Rosie's Rescue is very a very special place to me and has affected my life and work in a deep way. Read more about my personal experiences with RLRR here and here and here. My sincere thank you to everyone who is working to coordinate this event!

* * * * *

Red Lake Rosie's Rescue Synopsis:

Red Lake Rosie’s Rescue (RLRR) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization formed on February 6, 2006. The rescue/shelter is located on the Red Lake Indian reservation in northwestern Minnesota.

The shelter is run, singlehandedly, by Karen Good who lives and teaches at-risk high school kids on the reservation. She began the rescue with a mission to decrease the overpopulation of companion animals and the resulting homelessness, disease, malnutrition, and abuse, which has remained unchecked for generations on the reservation.

The Red Lake Reservation, which is approximately the size of Rhode Island, has had no other programs in the history of the nation that address the needs or protect the rights of companion animals.

The reservation has a human population of about 10,000. About 40% live at or below the poverty line. The unemployment rate is 36%, and the median age is 20.1 years. Crime and violence, often drug-related, are significant problems. Murder and suicide rates are high.

Considering these factors, it is no surprise that the most vulnerable population, domestic dogs and cats, would suffer the greatest. There are no veterinarians on the reservation, so there is a lack of medical care and neuter/spay. Even those animals who are not homeless often live outdoors without shelter and are expected to forage for their food. Many have malnutrition, dehydration, and are infected with mange and other parasites. It is a common and acceptable practice for residents to drop off litters of puppies and kittens, as well as adult animals at the garbage dumpsters where they are left to die of starvation, or disease, or be killed.

Karen has built outdoor kennels on her reservation property to house the animals. She also uses an older building to house small puppies and cats, and all of her supplies - food, medicine, bowls, towels, etc.

Karen's goals are three-fold; to rescue and find homes for the animals in need, to facilitate spay/neuter and medical care, and to provide humane education to the residents of Red Lake reservation.

In 2009, Karen rescued 859 animals. She provided food, housing, medical care, and spay/neuter.

Once or twice a month, with the help of a metro support group, the animals are transported from the shelter to Twin Cities’ area rescue groups.

Learn more about Red Lake Rosie's Rescue here.

May all dogs be happy!

~

Dazzle, Diamonds & Dogs :: Girls' Night Out!

2010-04-21T09:08:00.017-05:00

You're Invited to Join Us for an Exclusive Evening of Pampering to Benefit Top Dog Foundation...the Sanctuary!

Invite your friends to an exclusive Girls' Night Out! A fun and decadent evening of art, shopping, style tips, music, pampering, wine and delicious treats to benefit Top Dog Foundation...the Sanctuary. Join us at the Galleria and, in the name of dog-love, spoil yourself rotten!

WHEN:
Thursday, May 20th
5-8pm

WHERE:
Dogs of Edina Gallery
Galleria
(west end between Big Bowl and Louie Vuitton)
69th and France Avenue, Edina MN

WHY:
In support and celebration of Top Dog Foundation...the Sanctuary!

COST:
Deliciously FREE!

Featuring specialty shopping from:

StyledLife, Origins, Ataz, & Top Dog Country Club

with wine and hors d' oeuvres from
The Good Earth

Informal modeling and fashion
and an evening filled with pampering, from nose to paw!

Incredible Dog-Loving Raffle, including:

The Westin Hotel ~ Hotel Stay & Doggy Package

Top Dog Country Club ~ Vacation & Spa Package

This event is sponsored and hosted by:
Top Dog Country Club and DNA2Diamonds!

{An Introduction: Top Dog Country Club..."The Un-Kennel"}

"The World-renowned Top Dog Country Club has been featured on Discover Channel's Animal Planet, the NBC Today Show, in The New York Times, The World Herald Paris, was named the 2009 National Best Pet Resort and set a completely new standard for boarding dogs everywhere."

* * *

{An Introduction: DNA2Diamonds}

"A DNA2Diamond is a new and beautiful way to celebrate your connection during your pet’s loyal and selfless life. Maybe they’ve saved a life or are an animal hero having performed a heroic act … maybe they’ve won a champion’s rosette … maybe they’re worth honoring simply for their loving place in your life. Or, as a distinctive memento, a DNA2Diamond can help ease your grief by keeping your pet close to your heart even when your time together has passed."

Learn more about DNA2Diamonds in our recent Feature Interview here.

Feature Interview with DNA2Diamonds! :: A "Dogs of Edina" sponsor!

2010-04-21T08:13:00.010-05:00

The Dogs of Edina exhibition has been sponsored by some very incredible businesses and DNA2Diamonds is most definitely one of the most interesting! Before being introduced to the pet-industry, I never knew that diamonds like these existed. They are beautiful--not to mention, both personal and meaningful as well. And so, it is with great honor that I introduce to you: DNA2Diamonds!

Hope you enjoy the interview! Their product and process is a little bit fascinating, to say the least! And, also, so very, very "EDINA." ;)

{A bit about DNA2Diamonds}

DNA2Diamonds™ is a leading global provider of laboratory-created diamonds created from the signature carbon of people and pets -- which makes them the most personal diamonds in the world.

Headquartered in Pennsylvania, we are a unique full-cycle manufacturer and distributor of custom diamonds made to commemorate cherished lifetime events.

Our laboratory is one of the most innovative in the world. We have refined diamond-creation technology, resulting in a process that’s fast, easy and secure. Nature takes millennia to create a diamond; we take just a few days to create a DNA2Diamond that is physically, chemically and optically identical to earth-mined diamonds – and also environmentally-friendly and conflict-free.

{The Interview}

1. What sets DNA2Diamonds apart from other diamonds?

Unlike earth-mined gems and other lab-grown diamonds, however, DNA2Diamonds are truly personal. They begin with the signature carbon from hair or the cremated remains of loved ones (including treasured animal companions). This signature carbon is added to a diamond seed in our laboratory and exposed to the same process of extreme heat and pressure that happens deep below the earth’s crust.

In nature, it takes millennia to create a diamond; in our laboratory, it takes just a few weeks to create a DNA2Diamond that is GIA-certified to be physically, chemically and optically identical to earth-mined diamonds.

While gemologically equivalent to earth-mined diamonds, DNA2Diamonds are more beautiful, more meaningful and more precious – because they contain forever the essence of those you love. They are truly the most personal diamonds in the world.

2. Tell us a little bit about one of the most memorable diamond commissions that you’ve received in memory of an animal companion?

A customer recently sent DNA2Diamonds a beautiful letter about her dog, Tiger's life and death and how she is choosing to remember him. The entire letter can be read on the DNA2Diamonds blog, but here is an excerpt:

"...after hearing about DNA2Diamonds, I want Tiger to become something more than just a paw-printed metal container on a shelf in my house. I want to see the twinkle of his brown eyes again in a diamond that is part of him. I want him to go on walks with me again and be praised on his beauty, only this time as a pendant on a chain, instead of a dog, on a leash. Thank you for putting the sparkle back into Tiger's memory for me."

3. Does anyone ever request diamonds in honor of special animals for reasons other than “in memory”?

Many of our customers tell us they have once-in-a-lifetime relationships with their pets. Whether it’s the animal’s unique spirit and personality, the period of time spent together or the life experiences shared, a deep connection is formed – and both human and animal feel it. Pet owners choose to not only create diamonds "in memory" of their pets that have passed, but also while the animal is still living. We have had people contact us about their animal hero who saved a life and also owners of horse champions. We've let them know that not only can we create a diamond for them from their pets hair, but also that they can combine their own hair with their pets hair to be together forever in a DNA2Diamond.

Read about two recent pet memorial tributes, Tiger and Ariel.

4. What is the highlight of your work with DNA2Diamonds? In other words, what do you love most about what you do?

Helping someone through a difficult time and making their life just a little brighter is absolutely the best gift you could give someone. It's also a gift you give yourself knowing that you've made a positive impact on the lives of others. Although it's often painful for our customers to tell their story about their loved one or their pet that has passed, in doing so, and in creating a beautiful diamond memorial, a DNA2Diamond offers a special kind of comfort that allows people to heal and move forward with their lives. It gives them the peace that they are never really leaving their loved ones behind because their essence is forever captured in their personal diamond. Making that happen is an unmatched joy.

5. Do DNA2Diamonds come in different sizes and shapes?

Because a DNA2Diamond is the most precious and rare diamond one could ever own, personalizing it further by selecting the color, cut and size that reflects an individuals personal style just makes sense! DNA2Diamonds can be created in various cuts such as brilliant, radiant, princess and our new heart-shaped cut. They are available in colors of stunning red, brilliant yellow-green, warm cognac and dazzling blue. These personal diamonds are available in sizes ranging from 0.25 carats to 2.0 carats and can be set into a ring, bracelet, and earrings or worn as a pendant. Our Diamond Selector is helps our customers do just that with just a few clicks of the mouse.

6. What else would you like us to know about DNA2Diamonds?

Ordering a DNA2Diamond is quick and easy. Simply download from our website a DNA Signature Collection Kit complete with step-by-step instructions, or call us at 888-335-3630. In 70 days or less, from the time we receive your order and personal carbon source, your DNA2Diamond personal gem will be delivered to your doorstep.

www.DNA2Diamonds.com

May all dogs have diamonds!

ArtBARK! :: An Art Contest and Raffle to Benefit The Pet Project of Minnesota!

2010-04-13T17:59:00.010-05:00

ArtBARK! is an art contest, raffle, and event that celebrates the connections created between our dogs, our families, and our communities. ArtBARK! is presented by Bone Adventure and Stray Dog Arts as a fundraiser for The Pet Project.

THE ART:

Kids! We want to see your dog art!

Artwork must be submitted on the back of the ArtBARK! postcard and can be in any medium. If you need a postcard, they can be picked up at all three Bone Adventure locations.

Art will be judged in four age categories:
5 years and under,
6-9 years,
10-13 years,
and 14-18 years.

Art must be submitted by May 6th, 2010.

Winning submissions from each category will be framed and hung in the Dogs of Edina exhibition gallery during the ArtBARK! event.

Top winners in each category will receive:
A $25 gift certificate to Bone Adventure as well as a pack of 10 greeting cards custom designed by Stray Dog Arts--featuring the winner's artwork!

Runners-up in each category will receive:
A $10 gift certificate to Bone Adventure as well as art supplies from Stray Dog Arts.

All artwork submitted will be displayed at the ArtBARK! event so that artists can bring family and friends to see all the great dog art! WOOF! How awesome is that?!

THE RAFFLE:
Raffle tickets are available at all three Bone Adventure locations as well as at the ArtBARK! event. Buy a ticket for your chance to win a custom portrait by Jessie Marianiello of Stray Dog Arts (an $1800 value) and an extra special custom dog bed from Bone Adventure. Tickets are $10 each and all proceeds go to The Pet Project, a local organization that is working to keep pets and their families together during tough times by providing pet food and basic veterinary services for local pets. More information about the great work that The Pet Project is doing for pets in our communities is available at www.thepetprojectmn.org

Prizes totaling well over $2,000! And all of it's going to an incredible cause!

THE EVENT:
ArtBARK! will take place May 9th, Mother's Day, from 12-5pm in the Dogs of Edina gallery. The Dogs of Edina gallery exhibition is located on the west end of Galleria, between Big Bowl and Louis Vuitton. Stop by to buy a last minute raffle ticket, bring pet food to donate to The Pet Project, and support the local artists who are inspired by the dogs in our communities!

ArtBARK!
Reception and Celebration
Sunday, May 9th, 2010
12-5pm
Galleria's west end, between Louis Vuitton and Big Bowl

For more information about ArtBARK! contact Gabie at Bone Adventure, 612.920.2201 or gabie@boneadventure.com or stop by any of our three locations:

Bone Adventure Pet Gear and Grooming
*5045 France Ave S, Edina, MN 55410
*726 E Lake St, Wayzata, MN 55391
*312 E Hennepin, Minneapolis, MN 55414
www.boneadventure.com

May all dogs be happy!

~

Mon Ami :: An Event Celebrating our Community of Dog Lovers :: You're Invited!

2010-04-10T08:18:00.010-05:00

Local Dog Lovers, we invite you to join us at Mon Ami!

{Mon Ami: French for "My Friend."}

Join new friends and old for an incredible evening of live music, art, wine, delectables, exclusive deals and over a $1,000 in prizes! Mingle, mix and muse over the finest things in life: dogs!

Stray Dog Arts and the Galleria has partnered up with seven of the Twin Cities TOP pet businesses to present Mon Ami, a celebration of our community of dog lovers! Together with Sidewalk Dog, Pampered Pooch Playground, Sarah Beth Photography, Bone Adventure, Fetch Delivers, Stunt Puppy and K9 Connection, we'll be holding the festivities in the midst of the Dogs of Edina exhibition at the Galleria in Edina.

This free event will feature an up-close look at some of Marianiello's most recent artwork, live music, wine and creatively delicious treats from the famous Muddy Paws Cheesecake! There will be roll-over-and-beg-incredible prize drawings, special Sidewalk Dog deals and steals for attendees, and a chance to mix and mingle with the owners of your favorite local pet businesses. No special invite needed--the party is open to every one who loves dogs!

{The Deets}
Date: Friday, May 14th
Time: 5-8pm
Cost: Free!

Location:
Galleria, Edina :: 69th and France
Exhibition space between Louis Vuitton
& Big Bowl in the center's West end.

Fun:
Lovely local dog art, groovy live music,
wine, cheesecake, prizes, drawings, deals and
the chance to hobnob with local pet luminaries.

Sponsored by: Sidewalk Dog, Pampered Pooch Playground, Sarah Beth Photography, Bone Adventure, Fetch Delivers, Stunt Puppy and K9 Connection.

May all dogs be happy!

~

You're Invited To Our Group Show! :: Deviant Art: Dispelling Myths

2010-04-05T16:12:00.008-05:00

View and purchase prints by Stray Dog Arts
and artwork by fellow artists in support of ARLP!
WOOF!

Join us for an evening of myth busting, celebration and support of A Rotta Love Plus, Minnesota's Pit Bull and Rottweiler rescue, at the Northrup King Building in Minneapolis, MN.

WHAT: Deviant Art: Dispelling Myths :: Group Show

WHERE: NKB :: 1500 Jackson St NE :: Third Floor Gallery

WHEN: Saturday May 10th, 3-9pm

WHY: Mingle, appreciate AWESOME art, CELEBRATE "deviant" breeds, support ARLP by purchasing artwork by local artists!

Deviant Art is a benefit art show for A Rotta Love Plus. The event is free to attend, and includes artwork featuring "deviant" breeds created by over twenty local artists, vendors, youth and adult groups.

Meet A Rotta Love Plus volunteers and dog lovers, experience the artwork, make your mark with the community mural, sample the food, and support ARLP!

Hope to see you there!

Being Dramatic

2010-04-05T10:18:00.004-05:00

In case you're wondering why-oh-why my blog has been so quiet it's because I've been painting like a maniac! The Stray Dog Arts studio has been a flurry of creative activity. I look forward to sharing more with you soon! For now...

Being Dramatic :: {Project 44}

60" x 40" :: Oil on Canvas :: Photo of work in progress

...this is a sneak peek of my most favorite painting to date (early stages).
It's big. It's dramatic. It felt amazing to paint.

If you live in the Minneapolis area, I invite you to see the finished piece at
the Dogs of Edina exhibition at the Galleria, May 6th-31st, 2010.

For more glimpses into my daily life as an artist:
{Project 44} on Flickr
Follow me on Facebook @ http://www.facebook.com/jessie.marianiello
and become a Facebook fan of Stray Dog Arts.

Come. Sit. Save the Date!

2010-03-11T01:40:00.007-06:00

Mark your calenders! I'm currently painting up a storm in preparation for my BIGGEST solo exhibition ever and I want you to be a part of the celebration!

WHAT
Dogs of Edina
Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello
A Celebration of Dogs and the Community They Create

WHEN
Opening Reception
Thursday, May 6th
5-7pm
(exhibition runs May 6th-31st)

WHERE
Galleria
Between Louis Vuitton and Big Bowl in the center's west end
69th & France
Edina, Minnesota

Preparing for a solo exhibition is a long and intensive process. For me, it is also rewarding beyond words. The Dogs of Edina is over a year in the making. It is the third in an on-going series of neighborhood dog projects and, with the help of an entire community, it has also turned out to be my most extravagant show ever!

There are over 30 dogs participating in the Dogs of Edina and every single one of them contains more character and charm than I barely know what to do with!

As an artist, I am fascinated by the way dogs of particular neighborhoods reflect the people who live in them. I am also interested in the way dogs bring people together and create a common ground between those who might otherwise remain strangers. These layers of culture and community that are built around dogs and their people interest me greatly.

It is with great excitement that I will be showing my most recent works in over 2,000 square feet of stunning gallery space in the Galleria of Edina. These dogs deserve the best--and the best they shall have!

Please join us for an opening reception at the Galleria on Thursday, May 6th, 5-7pm. The Dogs of Edina exhibition will be showing May 6th-31st. I will be painting on location throughout the month of May. Please stop by for a visit, bring your friends, and soak up some extra dog love in the process!

Gallery Hours:
M-F 11am-8pm
Sat 10am-8pm
Sun 11am-5pm

There will also be some AMAZING events throughout the month,including doggie-luxurious raffles adding up to thousands of dollars! Not to mention, live music, delicious catering, wine-tasting, pampering, socializing, animal rescue fund raising, book-signings, gifts...and so much more!

WOOF!

Every neighborhood show takes on a life of its own
and this one is definitely no exception!

Let us celebrate the good things in life.

May all dogs be happy!

Event Top Sponsors:
Galleria
Westgate Pet Clinic
Scoopy Poo and the Dog Haus
Sarah Beth Photography

Also Sponsored By:
Bone Adventure
Nielsen Framing
DNA2Diamonds
Julia BreteySalon

Chloe and Scout :: shine on, sweet love

2010-01-31T22:51:00.025-06:00

"Chloe"

12"x 16" :: Oil on Canvas

It's been such a great weekend...and one of the best parts was delivering two paintings of two very loved Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Scout and Chloe, to a very wonderful St. Paul couple, Julie and Tomkin. Gosh, where to begin?

Well, how about I begin by saying that I love Chloe. I know...you're probably not even taking me seriously anymore when I say that, but it's true! Sometimes I wonder what I'm going to do with all this love. It feels heavy and expansive and there are moments, like now, that I feel like my heart might burst! Woe is me; life is tough when one of your biggest problems is an over-abundance of love. I think my heart gained a 1,000 pounds this week.

Chloe and I
photo credits: Tomkin Coleman

Chloe is the biggest, calmest, most beautiful sweetheart in the world. Not to mention, she's also a great communicator--without speaking a word. I think that's one of the things that I love most about her (along with her soulful eyes, gentle energy and gorgeous physique!). Chloe speaks with her eyes--an entire language-- expressed by the subtlest of movements, and often using her tail to accentuate varying levels of happiness. Just a slight movement in the end half of her tail, the tiniest lifting of an eyebrow--it's all it takes--movements that say everything. And the best part? Her parents, Julie and Tomkin, understand her as perfectly as she understands them. Their relationship with each other is a beautiful thing to behold.

I could have hung out in the peacefulness of their glowing home all day long. And when I say it glows, I mean it. Sure, it was an exceptionally sunny day, but something about their place seems to shine from the inside out. I believe that dogs, like people, are filled with such amazing potential. I love seeing how Julie and Tomkin help Chloe to shine so brightly--and I also loved witnessing how brightly Chloe makes Julie and Tomkin shine!

me (left) and Julie (right)
Happy (belated) Birthday, Julie!
photo credits: Tomkin Coleman

It felt so good to see Chloe again, especially after painting her portrait. I gently pet her head and neck as we all sat around chatting. Of course I fell in love with her even more as I watched her eyes get heavier and heavier until she nearly fell asleep. Bliss. I wished I could take her home with me...but this is one lucky dog that most certainly doesn't need a new home.

Chloe and Scout's portraits were commissioned as a 40th birthday present from Tomkin to Julie. Julie has a business called Before Your Wedding Day offering premarital counseling and education classes; her husband, Tomkin, is a minister. I only wish he could have officiated my husband and my wedding--but that was before we knew him! I've really grown to like both Julie and Tomkin in the process of working with them. They are so beautifully made for each other! It has been an absolute pleasure getting to know them. Not to mention, I love birthdays! I especially love getting to be a part of such a special gift. It just never loses its luster for me! Julie's actual birthday was way back in October, but they waited oh-so-patiently for the paintings of their babes to be completed.

Although it was great to finally get to see Chloe again, I never got the honor of meeting Scout. His portrait was done in memory. Julie and Tomkin chose the perfect photo for me to work from. Even though I never met Scout, through painting, I feel like I got to know him just as if I had met him in person. Scout makes me feel happy. With that smile and that crazy bright red fire chief hat, how could a person not feel happy in such a presence?! ha!

"Scout"
16"x 12" :: Oil on Canvas

While in my studio, every time I looked at his painting, I couldn't help but break into a great big smile--and his portrait had the same effect on my husband. Scout's smile is infectious and, although he might not be here in body, his spirit is alive and well.

I enjoyed every single second of painting both Chloe and Scout's portrait. After a hugely busy spring, summer, fall, holiday season and, well, past two years, I took a two week break after the holidays to regroup, refuel and take care of a few behind-the-scenes details that had been crying for my attention for months. Taking that break was exactly what I needed. In returning to my studio to work on Chloe and Scout's paintings, I felt myself return to myself. With the turn of 2010, I felt something inside of me shift. This year I've decided to take better care of myself--and, strangely, painting Scout and Chloe has been part of a much larger learning process.

In 2008, Stray Dog Arts took off with lightening speed and has only gained momentum since. I have loved every bit of it. And yet I am beginning to understand how important it is to pay attention to my own internal rhythms. I am, after all, only human. These days, no matter how busy things might be on the outside, I've decided to take it a bit slower and easier on the inside. It's a state of mind, really--but it requires some self-care to make it work. I practiced this new way of thinking and being as I painted Chloe and Scout's portraits--and this has been the most healing month I've had in a long, long, long time.

Sometimes it amazes me how the dogs I paint become so deeply ingrained into my own personal history. It amazes me how important each dog is and how much I'm changed in the course of painting their portrait. Chloe and Scout are two beautiful beings that have permanently altered the molecules in my brain and heart--and, for that, I am thankful. I needed a bit of a rearranging. ;)

My wish for Julie is that she will have the most incredible year she's ever experienced. I am wishing that for us all.

with peace and dog love,
Jessie

Sadie, a life-size work of art.

2010-01-22T15:01:00.019-06:00

This week I delivered a painting of a dog named Sadie, the loving companion of Christine. Sadie is also the Ambassador of Greetings and Queen of Shepherd Data Services in downtown Minneapolis--or, at least, I think she's deserving of such titles! Her portrait was commissioned as a gift from the employees of Shepherd Data for their boss, Christine.

My thought is this: either A) Christine is one incredible boss or B) Christine has some very incredible employees! I have a feeling, though, that it is an equal combination of both! Whatever the case, it is always a huge pleasure to play a part in such a meaningful gift.

Even though Sadie is a Minneapolis dog, I never actually got a chance to meet her before painting her portrait. Often, when a dog lives out of state or has passed on, I only get to know them through the act of painting. If you're local, more times than not, I jump at the opportunity to meet the four-legged babe I'm being commissioned to paint--but, for some reason, Sadie and I never got to meet in person beforehand.

It's pretty cool, actually. Through painting, I learned a long time ago that if you spend enough time looking at something, you will begin to understand it in nearly impossible ways. It takes me a long time to create a portrait. Unlike some artists, I'm not a quick painter.

The work I do comes from my heart and, in order for that to happen, patience is required. I'm also a bit obsessive when it comes to meeting my vision. I paint with a variety of brush sizes--some are large, but most are very small. No matter how long I walk this path of an artist, it never seems to get any easier. Sure, I've come to understand the paint, colors, light, shadows, and physique of animals in a much deeper way...but the stretch from one detail to the next has always been a hurdle that I find myself needing to jump over and over and over again. I think this is a big reason why, even after more than two years of painting dogs, I feel like I've only reached the tip of the inspiration iceberg. But I digress...

One thing that I really love about painting locally is getting the chance to deliver the finished piece in person. Delivering Sadie's portrait was especially incredible because I finally got to meet her in the flesh and fur!! It's kind of hard to describe how incredible it felt when she came walking out from her office to greet me. I'm not kidding: I nearly burst into tears!

Sadie is unique--through and through. But if only I could describe what it feels like to meet a being whom you feel like you already know! It's a pretty amazing feeling. No, it's a REALLY amazing feeling!

The entire staff circled around to watch the unveiling of the painting. Bubble wrap removed, everyone clapped and Sadie confidently added her chorus-like opinion. ha! Talk about feeling honored! As you might imagine, Sadie's howling ovations were an extra great perk!

Sadie is an incredible dog. And Shepherd Data is an incredible group of individuals working for an incredible woman. Meeting Sadie after painting her portrait felt pretty dang amazing. She is as beautiful as I imagined. Her eyes are as stunning as I attempted to capture with paint.

I've said it before and I'll say it again: I feel exceptionally blessed to be doing the work I do. Every dog comes with such a unique personality and spirit.

And Sadie is definitely no exception!

Good Dog!
Sadie, life-size portrait of the world's coolest office dog
36"x 18"
Oil on Canvas

Upon waking...

2010-01-19T08:56:00.002-06:00

The result of last night's magic-in-the-making .

from the studio to the house at night...

2010-01-19T00:54:00.002-06:00

Nearly 1 am and I've just finished a painting. Tight shoulders, heavy eyes, a mug full of "Tranquil Dream" tea sitting to my left. I kinda like working late at night, although my body does not agree. Upon leaving the studio, the first thing I do is look for coyotes standing in the shadows. I've yet to meet one eye to eye, but they are alive and well, living in the woods just beyond our house. I hear them often, but not so much since the deep snows came. Tonight, rather than coyotes, I was surprised by a thick mist that filled the air above me, like a plume. It came from out of nowhere and, immidiately clung thickly to the branches and pine needles of the trees. In the two minutes that it takes me to walk from my studio to the house, it happened. Instantaneous.

I do not doubt that this strange night magic is the result of so much snow, another warm day and then a quick drop in temperature. Even so, explanations never seem to detract from the unexpected phenomenon of the night.

Lately, it seems that being outside at night is when my exterior environment feels most unexplored. In the process, my interior environment takes on a much desired newness. I feel a deep need to travel, but without the time to do so, I'm beginning to feel a bit cagey. At night though, everything feels different. It feels adventurous, a delicious sense of imagined danger in the winter air and dark shadows. The crystalline edges of things, like the space around the stars, feels sharper. The crunch of snow is more audible, as though one can hear the breaking of each tiny crystal. Being outside in the cold stillness of night draws out another side of things--revealing unexpected beauties, little mysteries--the invisible is made visible. Air turns to ice. In the walk between studio and home, I feel my thoughts sneak out of my skull for just a moment... and it is refreshing.

I'm greeted at the door of the house by sleepy dogs, warmth and a hungry cat. In two minutes, worlds apart.

Merry Christmas from our hobbit castle to yours!

2009-12-24T21:34:00.002-06:00

The Bicicletta, Italian cocktails anyone?

Charlie Brown, we love you.

A cozy snowy Christmas Eve in our hobbit castle.

with love,
The Marianiello's

December 1

2009-12-01T08:16:00.010-06:00

It feels amazing to me that today is the first day of December. The pond has frozen over in a fragile sheath of ice for the first time this year. It's been a process of freezing, starting at the edges, and has been going on for weeks. But this morning it has finally found its way across the entire surface.

I love the pond outside our house. It reminds me of Thoreau and a favorite quote:

"I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."

This is a quote that I have lived my life by. I came across it in high school and have made many decisions in its echo since.

It seems surreal to me that it's already been 4 months since we moved from the middle of a city to the almost-middle-of-nowhere. We moved at the end of July. In mid-August I got really sick with Rocky Mountain spotted fever (most definitely the strangest illness I've every acquired!). I had to drop everything for an entire month--the unpacking, painting, my work. Everything. That was difficult for me to do. I am pretty hard-driven and to be stopped in my tracks is not something I'm very good at. Not to mention, my schedule was already packed to the gills. Those lost weeks were not something I had to spare. From there it was a domino effect in trying to catch up. A big solo exhibition, many events, two major projects, and a handful of commissions later...here we are taking our first step into December. Time is a tricky monkey. It's gone from July to December in one fell swoop. Blink! This must be how it happens, how we grow old. This is how one day we wake up and we're 90, remembering how young we felt when we were 35. All I can say is: dang. I hope I live to be a 1,000.

And so today I drink my coffee out of an especially fragile cup. Some days I prefer the thickness of hand-thrown ceramic. Other days, like today, I prefer the fragility of fine china. I think it says something about how I'm going to approach my day. Sometimes I put on my old jeans, a sweater and boots and dig into my day with a full heart. Other days I like to move more deliberately. I like paying attention to the delicate surface tension that stretches itself across the pond, a fine combination of stretched lace and glass. Who knows, my mid-afternoon I might switch to that heavy ceramic mug, but for now I am content with the subtle features of the morning.

There are so many things to share and catch up with you in the space of this blog. Photos, stories, events, paintings...they wait in files on my computer and in my head and on my camera. But, for now, here is just a little slice of one moment out of one morning. This is my life as an artist. And, this morning, it is a life lived deliberately.

Here's to a December filled with a life worth living.

ps.
Photo taken by my husband, Vinny, this past weekend. Sitting at my computer in the studio with my wolfie girl, Anu, contentedly asleep at my feet (if only she were in the photo, too!).

early morning in november.

2009-11-14T08:16:00.001-06:00

It's early, but not early enough. I like the dark moments before morning, the moment when the sky is still in a state of predawn. However, with the light comes several notable details such as the sheep that live across the pond. Since the field next to them was cut, I notice that they stand in new configurations. The horses also have moved to another pasture, off the hill and away from the wind. I like the movements of the world surrounding our new home. If only I could slow down my own internal rhythms in the same way.

And so I take this moment to peacefully drink my coffee and do something for myself. Blogging is for me. It uses a different part of my brain. Yes, writing, I miss you. I miss you, but you are always with me. Waiting.

In the bedroom off my office I hear the deep sigh of my dog Louie as he nestles in deeper along Vinny's side. I love weekend mornings when the rest of the house sleeps in. For me, there is really no such thing as a weekend, but there are moments of peace, like this one, that I drink in deeply. I think to myself that someday I might even add some semblance of balance to my life. A life where I take weekends off, even if only occasionally. Where I have days that I wake up only to flop myself on the couch with my legs flung across cushions and a book in my hand. Maybe someday I will make that happen, but for now I catch the same sorts of enjoyments in quick doses. I stop in front of the living room window and take in the changing colors of the season. This new landscape--it is all a constant discovery. Even I am a constant discovery. Always, always learning how to live with myself a little bit better.

Early morning blessings to you, friends. Here's to another day and the endlessness of changing light.

{Featured!} Must see: November Issue of the Mpls St. Paul Magazine

2009-10-22T09:11:00.004-05:00

Yesterday my husband, Vinny, came home from the grocery store with a surprise for me. He had a big smile on his face and a plastic bag about 3 inches thick in his hands.

"I got you something" he said with an especially cute smile and handed it to me.

The bag sort of melted in my hand--square, but curving at the edges the way a small pile of magazines will do.

Eeeeeeee! Squeal of delight! I knew what it was immidiately: the November issue of the Mpls St. Paul Magazine featuring "Custom Made" artisans and a two page spread of yours truly! :)

I don't mean to geek out or brag, but I just have to say that I am a little bit giddy with excitement. I can't help it. I'm excitable when it comes to being featured in glossy publications. Especially good ones! :)

I immidiately took one of the magazines out of the bag, circled the living room a couple times and then sat down in a chair next to the window. I was about to go straight for the article, but decided to torment myself and savor the moment as long as possible. I opened the magazine to page 1 and looked at every single page until I got to page numero 56...which is when I started ooooing and awwwwing and giggling like a maniac over the beautiful layout and my incredibly gorgeous Chesapeake love, Louie: front and center. What's not to love?! He glows! He's practically levitating in the foreground and there's me in the background...glowing, too! And that's exactly how this work makes me feel. Thank you to the photographer, Stephanie Colgan, for capturing that very deep and wonderful feeling.

The article, written by the fabulous Christy DeSmith is absolutely incredible. I moved from the living room window to the kitchen where I read it out loud to Vinny (and any dogs and cats that might listen). Louie, like a giant piece of Velcro, pressed up against my leg the entire time while Ella, our youngest pup, raced circles on the couch behind us. If a family can morph into one huge smile then, in that moment, that is exactly what happened to us. It is an absolute honor to be featured among such hugely talented artists of the Minneapolis area.

Here's to supporting the arts. Thank you, Mpls St. Paul Magazine!

May all dogs be happy!

Whooot! Watch for me in the November issue of the Mpls St. Paul Magazine!

2009-10-17T22:17:00.005-05:00

Out soon! The November issue of the Mpls St. Paul Magazine is all about custom made. And guess who's included!

ps.
Keep another eye on my shop. Great new products are on their way!

16 Little Souls...

2009-10-14T07:30:00.006-05:00

The puppies of Red Lake Rosie's Rescue.

May all dogs be happy!

A special thank you to MARS, TLC, Animal Ark and The Pet Project
for fostering these little babes until they find their forever homes!

A car load of goodies and 16 babes on their way to new homes...

2009-10-14T06:26:00.014-05:00

This past weekend a dog-loving friend of mine (Mary Wick) and I took a road trip up to Red Lake Rosie's Rescue to deliver a car load of donations that began with 2 igloo dog houses from Rachel of Rotta Love Plus. The dog houses turned into a shout-out for more donations on Facebook and in less then two weeks we had our vehicle filled to the brim with more that we were weren't even able to take!

Quite frankly, I am amazed by how little effort it took to gather so much STUFF. I can only wonder how many hundreds of pounds of dog food, cat food, kitty litter and miscellaneous goodies we had packed in the back of my Honda Element. The load also kept us firmly attached to the snowy roads on the way up.

Karen Good of RLRR sends a great big THANK YOU to all of the individuals, organizations and businesses that went out of their way to get this stuff to us. You can be sure that every last bit of it will be put to good use.

It was good to see Karen and to be at the shelter again. It had been almost a year since the last time I've been there and, being my home turf, it felt good to be back again. The landscape of northern Minnesota is where my blood and bones feel most at home. Of course, being surrounded by dogs, trees, fields, open sky and really incredible people makes it even better.

It should come as no surprise that I met some beautiful beings in the process. There was one in particular that I especially fell in love with. A husky named Zenith. Had conditions for adopting a new babe been better, this little guy would have come home with me (without a doubt!). Despite my inability to adopt him, he has lodged himself deep in my heart. In my imagination I've named him "Jack," after my Grandpa Jack whose spirit I always feel near. I have no doubt that this little guy will find a home quickly. And hopefully it will be the best home in the universe, since this is what this lil' puppy deserves.

There was another puppy that stole my heart as well: a baby Spaniel mix who was shaking with cold due to the fact that she's so skinny that her rib and hip bones are sticking out. Puppy food donations are sure to fatten her up. She also lacks a full coat of hair due to mange. What she did receive, however, was a new polka-dog fleecy jacket and a warm place inside the cat house along side another puppy named Boots. The spaniel girl LOVED being held and could not give enough kisses. While I held her close and rubbed warmth back into her little body she just kissed and kissed and kissed me. As you can imagine, I felt a wee bit spoiled with love.

There were puppies galore. So many, in fact, that we took 16 of them back with us to Minneapolis the following day. And so, from Karen's vehicles to ours, we loaded the back of the Element with precious souls headed for the warm houses that awaited. Winter weather has arrived in Minnesota and Karen was so relieved to see her babes get out of the cold--and we were thrilled be taking them.

All in all, it was a great trip filled with more dog-love than one blog post can possibly contain. It's difficult to write about a trip to Red Lake Rosie's. The experience is always deep and full and expansive. It lodges itself somewhere deep inside your spirit and makes it impossible to return as the same person you were before you got there.

Karen is an amazing, glowing spirit who does amazing and incredible work. I love every moment that I've been able to spend with her and urge you to take the plunge and get involved in whatever way fits you best. Maybe you want to take a trip up to Red Lake Rosie's Rescue and help hands on. Maybe you want to do a transport. Maybe it's easier for you to simply donate resources or money. Maybe you have a special talent that you're able to contribute.

Personally, I love working hands on with the animals. I like getting dirty. I like being kissed to death. I like the smell of puppy breath. I like winning the trust of an unsure dog. I like seeing Karen in action. She inspires me. Red Lake Rosie's inspires me. These puppies and dogs inspire me.

Road from Karen's house to the shelter.
(photo taken by Mary Wick)

You can learn more about Red Lake Rosie's Rescue here. Read their blog here. And learn more about donating time and/or resources here.

Be sure and check out photos of some of the puppies we transported here.

with love,
Jessie
(Stray Dog Arts)

Trying to get good photos of your dog?

2009-10-03T13:13:00.002-05:00

Read this.

The best paintings often start with a great photo.

Now get that camera out and go have some fun!

Calling all EDINA dogs!!!

2009-10-03T10:01:00.013-05:00

Upcoming Art Exhibition:

“Dogs of Edina”
A celebration of dogs and the community they create

about the project…
As an artist, I am fascinated by the way dogs of particular neighborhoods reflect the people who live in them. I am also interested in the way dogs bring people together and create a common ground between those who might otherwise remain strangers. These layers of culture and community that are built around dogs and their people interest me greatly.

I am currently looking for participants to become part of an upcoming exhibition: “Dogs of Edina.” This project, the third in an ongoing series, reflects a sense of place and is rooted in a celebration of community.

If your dog lives, works, or plays in the Edina, MN area and is interested in taking part, please contact me.

20% off regular commission prices given for participating dogs!

May all dogs be happy!

Showing:
May 6th-31st

Galleria
69th St & France Ave
Edina, MN

Opening Reception:
May 6th
5-7pm

And a great big WOOF(!) to our SPECTACULAR sponsors:
Galleria
Scoopy Poo and the Dog Haus
Westgate Pet Clinic
DNA2Diamonds
Nielsen Framing
Sarah Beth Photography
Bone Adventure
Julia Bretey Salon

Truth Seeking on the 29th day of September.

2009-09-29T09:33:00.001-05:00

Cool fall morning. Lavender scarf. Dogs running through tall grass. Slanting early sunlight. Golden wooded trails. The sharp smell of something green and growing. Frost on the studio roof. A double espresso. Comfortable gray sweater. A long day of painting, beginning with this post.

Anu :: {an update on my girl}

2009-09-28T09:42:00.007-05:00

I just want to send a great big thank you for all of the supportive and thoughtful comments, messages, phone calls and emails that I got after writing about Anu this past week. You have no idea how blessed it makes me feel to have such incredibly loving people in my life.

Although I don't have a lot of time to write, I just wanted to let you know that she is doing better. Not perfect, but much better.

For now, we are giving her pain medication to make her feel more comfortable and she is responding really well to it. Her tests showed mixed results. There are some abnormal cells, but no conclusive answers just yet. She will need to get more tests for us to know for sure if it's cancer or not, but since treatment is not really an option due to her age and the size of the lump, we will just keep a close eye on her and bring her back to the vet for another look in a week or two.

In the process of all of this, we've been lucky to find a really wonderful vet in our area. Since moving, our regular vet is an hour away, too far for Anu to travel under the circumstances. Knowledgeable and caring veterinary care means a lot to me--and Dr. Geoffrey Passe of Cannon Valley Vet Clinic is just that. They got us in, despite a tight schedule and took the time we needed to make Anu feel a bit better and to put my husband and I at ease.

I admit that I was a bit of a wreck when I called in. With last minute preparations for a major show and magazine photo shoot also on my plate, this has been a very full week. Anu got sick right smack dab in the middle of it all and I think my heart came just as close as it ever could to breaking into a million peices. I can't even tell you how grateful I am to still have Anu by my side as I continue these long days of working and painting. Every time I look down at her, every time I touch her, every time I kiss her or hug her or feed her or look into her big brown beautiful eyes or even just think about her...I am filled with relief that the Universe decided to give me a break and grant me more time with her.

I was just seriously not ready to say goodbye. I never will be...but I am grateful for every single extra moment I'm given--whether it's a week or a year. I snuggle my face deep into her neck (my favorite part of her) and breathe deep the sweet smell of her wolfie hair. She stays closer to my side than she ever has before. We are savoring each other--all of us. We might have some tough days ahead, but right now there is happiness in her eyes. And I remind myself that this might be nothing at all. Whatever it is, in a very big way, it has caused me to appreciate what I have right here and now.

Thank you, Dr. Geoffrey, for helping us out during a difficult and scary time. Thank you, friends, for doing the same. Your stories, love, and well wishes mean a lot--to all of us.

Sending you lots of slobbery dog kisses,
Jessie

Love...and all that goes along with it.

2009-09-24T21:28:00.001-05:00

Last night I slept on the floor of my studio with my wolfie girl, Anu. It's a garage, really. Complete with mice and spiders and things that go bump in the night. But I would do anything for my dogs. And they would do anything for me. My twelve year old babe is not doing very well. She is one of the most important beings in my life. I am exhausted. My eyes are so swollen from crying that they are starting to hurt. I am beside myself with grief and yet I keep telling myself to buck up because she might just pull through--at least for awhile and, who knows, maybe even longer.

I honestly didn't know if she'd make it through the night, but decided against emergency vet care because I could not stand the thought of being told that I'd have to leave her there, alone, without the ones who love her. My worst fear is of her dying alone. No one should die alone. Not even a dog.

But we made it to morning. Several tests and bloodwork later, we're not sure what's going on with her. She has a large growth that might be cancerous and maybe not. It's been there for a long time, but recently it's started changing, at a rapid rate. Her bloodwork pointed to some abnormalities, but nothing 100% conclusive. If it is cancer, there's not much we can do except make her last days comfortable--whether it be 6 days, 6 weeks, 6 months or 6 years. She is, after all, an old girl. We've been advised to simply take it one day at a time. I'm trying to remind myself of that. I tell myself to stay present, lest I melt into a puddle of tears.

Right now, Anu is asleep on the floor near my feet. Behind me, my other dogs, Louie and Ella, they have their legs wrapped around each other in sweet muggle-puffin play. They know something is up, their movements are especially quiet and gentle. Louie, my Chessie, is the most sensitive. His thoughtful expression breaks my heart again. Both the pups stop and sniff Anu and keep a watchful eye on her. We stay close and surround her with love.

Needless to say, my world is filled to the brim. So much love that I feel it sharply, painfully. Maybe everything is going to be alright. No matter what the outcome, in the end, I know it will be alright. But life just seems to be happening all at once these days. And, damn. This is just a bit too much.

My wolfie girl is my heart.

I don't want to have to say goodbye.

Home Sweet Home: Vineyard views at the new Stray Dog Arts studio.

2009-09-11T00:17:00.003-05:00

my little ella bean...

2009-08-21T23:22:00.002-05:00

No words needed.

Truman.

2009-08-20T20:31:00.007-05:00

There are certain dogs with certain names that I just fall in love with. Truman is one of them.

Lately, I've been meeting some really great dogs. I mean really, REALLY great dogs. I recently did a photoshoot with Truman in preparation for his portrait that I'll be painting in celebration of his mama who just turned 40. He is loved beyond words and the whole family knows it. They know it so well that Mama Truman's dad and siblings commissioned his portrait as a gift. It is an extra treat for me because they just happen to live in Minneapolis which means that I was able to meet Truman, the wonderful, in person.

Truman reminds me a little bit of a dog I once met while hiking in the Himilayas of Nepal. The hike itself was nearly a month long. But one day I met a white dog who was laying on top of his home's low, earthen roof. That dog felt like a being from another world to me. He was so peaceful and alert all at once. Like Truman, it was a light colored lab. Most likely, it was a mutt. Perhaps a puppy from an unwanted litter, this was one of the few dogs that had actually been taken in by a family. I could tell that dog was loved--it was obvious in ways that are both felt and seen. Like Truman.

I've learned a lot about dogs since my wanderlust days in the Himilayas. And, yet, I never cease to be amazed by the beings I meet. Each dog is so unique, so full of their very own character. It just about bowls me over. I start to understand something that I never understood before...something unspoken, something very hard to explain but that makes me feel closer to myself and, therefore, the world around me.

I look forward to starting Truman's painting. I think it is a really cool way to celebrate a person's life journey. Sometimes it just doesn't seem fair that I should get to have a job that I enjoy so much. But, I'll tell you, I am thankful for it every single day.

Happy Birthday, Mama Truman! You are a lucky mama, indeed. :)

Inspiration.

2009-08-18T19:51:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite animal rescues in the Universe is "A Place to Bark." It is run by a woman named Bernie Berlin, a woman who I only know through her blog, but who is an endless source of inspiration for me and for many others. I love this video and just thought I'd share! Enjoy. Then go find an animal to love. xo

Movie created by the fantastically creative Suzi Blu.

On the air!

2009-08-11T13:00:00.017-05:00

You know that feeling you get when you go to a great big water park or go swimming in a new lake? That feeling of excitement and uncertainty all rolled into one?

Yep, that's how it felt to be on the radio for the first time. It was a lot of fun! I've had the wonderful honor of doing plenty of podcast interviews, but never LIVE and never on the radio!

Radio holds a place that is rooted somewhere deep in my childhood memories. It brings up a feeling of fascination for me. When I was growing up, my parents owned a flower shop and so, as a child, much of my time was spent riding around with them in the car making deliveries or running errands. The radio was always on. My child-mind often pondered: How do they make that magic happen?! You can imagine how I felt stepping into a room filled with headsets and microphones! Oh, the beautiful under-belly of radio! My immature self immidiately made herself present as I giggled in wonder at all the chords and paraphernalia used to make a radio show come to life.

Three. Two. One! The music starts and any nervousness I felt just sort of fell away. Sage is an expert radio personality! How would I know? Because I got to watch her in action!

You can listen to the show for yourself via podcast here.

Thank you, Sage of Dancing Porcupine, for having Sarah Ernhart (of Sarah Beth Photography) and me on your show!

You can listen to The Pet Playground
every Sunday evening at 6-7pm on AM950-KTNF
or catch up with archived shows here.

While you're at it, check out Sage's incredible book, JAVA: The True Story of a Shelter Dog Who Rescued a Woman. This book captures every bit of Sage's authentic, passionate, and radiant spirit.

My favorite books are the ones that help to remind us that the best place to live from is our heart. Sage's story is an incredible reminder of just that.

Read.
Listen.
Be well.

May all dogs be happy!

Ridin' the Airwaves: Radio Interview tonight!

2009-08-09T14:55:00.003-05:00

It's time to play with Sage Lewis, The Creature Teacher! The Pet Playground is an entertaining and educational call in show for pets and the people who love them.

Tonight I have the great honor of being interviewed by Sage Lewis of Dancing Porcupine. I will be joined by the wonderful Sarah of Sarah Beth Photography as a fellow guest. Sarah and I love collaborating with each other when given the chance. To be interviewed on the radio together with Sage, well, that's an added bonus!

I look forward to sharing a little bit about my life and work as a pet portrait artist. Let's connect over the good things in life!

Please join us tonight!
The Pet Playground - Your Place to Play
Sunday, August 9th, 6-7pm
AM950 KTNF

Pour yourself a nice tall glass of lemonade and head out to the front porch to relax and listen in. Not a Minnesota listener? Technology is a wonderful thing! Audio stream via KTNF's website here.

Busy out playing in the sun? No worries! A podcast will be available for your listening pleasure here.

Have any burning question for me, Sarah, or Sage? Call in! We'd love to hear from you!

Listener Call in #952-946-6205

Meet Henry...

2009-08-08T21:07:00.002-05:00

"Henry"
6"x12" Oil On Canvas

Ladies and Gentlemen, meet Henry. Henry is hereby the very first portrait that I have completed in my new studio space. He's also a gift from a set of siblings for their parents' wedding anniversary. I love painting portraits that will be given as gifts.. It always amazes me that there are such thoughtful people in the world who go out of their way to have such personal and meaningful gestures of love created for the important people in their lives. Art is love--and so is Henry.

These past several weeks have felt more than a little overwhelming with our recent move along with summer events and projects. There is one thing in the world that puts me right back to center and that is painting. No matter how much I have going on...painting makes me feel calmer in a nano-second. Of course, painting a really great dog makes it even easier to breathe deeper and be inspired.

Thank you, Henry, for making me feel good. :) You were painted in the company of 3 great dogs, double espressos, and some really great music in a fresh, new, and not yet unpacked studio space.

You were a perfect beginning to all that is to come.

Happy Anniversary Mama and Papa Henry!!!

with love,
jessie

Louie, my muse.

2009-07-24T21:00:00.005-05:00

Slowly, slowly we are getting settled into our new place. Did I mentioned that the home and studio of Stray Dog Arts moved this past weekend? It has been interesting, difficult, and wonderful all at the same time. We're exhausted and excited all at once. My husband, Vinny, snuck this photo of Louie and me recharging our batteries this afternoon. I realize that this isn't exactly the most flattering photo of me. I'm a little reluctant to post it, but what the hell. It's a real moment and those are the best kind. I just love the way it totally captures the comfort that Louie gives me. He is my rock, my anchor, my inspiration, my endless source of love, contentment and security.

The connection I feel with Louie is both deep and special. His thoughtfulness amazes me on a daily basis. He is one of a kind. And, yet, I know that this is a connection shared between many of my clients and the dogs they've asked me to paint. To sit in the middle of this love with a paint brush in hand is a pretty incredible thing. Taking a five minute break to recharge my creative batteries with Louie, well, that's a pretty incredible thing, too.

These days, as I pack and unpack boxes, it is the little things that I am enjoying the most. Things like this short little cat nap, the way the light in the living room takes on a golden glow in the afternoon, the prehistoric sounds of the two egrets who hang out in the middle of the pond, the beauty of a perfect cup of coffee while grooving out to James Brown out it the studio, watching my husband play guitar under the willow tree in the mellowness of evening, the bright colors of our freshly steam cleaned rugs--you know...the little things. They are the best.

What about you? What are some of the best things in your world?

Optimism.

2009-06-28T22:48:00.005-05:00

I can't help it. I'm an optimist. My husband says I'm an idealist. He calls himself a realist (which, let's admit, is pretty much just a slight upgrade from being a pessimist). I was mildly surprised when he didn't call me a dreamer. I was prepared to argue. I won't argue with being an idealist though--because it's true.

I tend to walk around with an ideal version of what I want things to look like or turn out like or...yeah...I keep it tucked somewhere at the back of my eyeballs and I'll be damned if I'm gonna give up trying to manifest it on one level or another. I do this with painting, with living, with writing, with everything. I suppose this could be construed as stubborn or determined...and, yes, this is true of me also--a positive or negative trait, depending on how one looks at it. :)-

Sometimes my version of "ideal" changes. But one thing I'm fairly certain of is that my ideal version of life doesn't look like most people's. If it did, I'm pretty sure that I would not get so excited about the potential of a dirtly ol' garage in the middle of nowhere.

The garage, an earth-home constructed workshop, is about to become the home of the Stray Dog Arts studio. I've been letting my imagination run away from me on a fairly regular basis and am looking forward to the two larger-than-life paintings that I'd like to start once I get moved in. One will be of an English Mastiff named Beatrice. The other one will be of my grandpa. For some reason, it fascinates me to paint the two of them at the same time. I admit that painting my grandpa scares me. I'm afraid that painting him is going to make me love him even more. This scares me because, no matter how lucky you are, grandpas don't get to live forever. I guess that's one thing that grandpas and dogs have in common--and I love both, dearly. Come to think of it, that old garage that I am turning into my studio reminds me of my grandpa--completely--and that's probably one of the reasons I like it so much.

It even has a window that looks like it belongs on the side of a ship. On the other side of those big windows is where the garden starts. Despite the late start, I am planting bright red sunflowers and riotous bursts of zinnias. We'll also scatter some butterfly garden seeds, carrots, and sugar snap peas. I like imagining what it will be like to get lost in work up to the workbench and then look up into a world of bloom. I've been calling this year my year of "wild bloom." I had no idea that it would manifest itself so literally. Then again, this year has been full of surprises. This surprise just happens to be heavenly.

Although we don't technically move in for another 2 weeks, today Vinny and I spent several hours tilling the new garden space (and if you've ever done much gardening, you probably know just how difficult this is to do!). Behind the studio we'll plant tomatoes, more sunflowers, moon flowers, potatoes, peppers, string beans, spinach, lettuce, swiss chard, zucchini and some basil. I love it that I am going to be surrounded by growing things! Anyway, I've been meaning to give you a brief introduction to our new place and so here it is.

Here's to the optimism of growth. Here's to turning a dirty old garage into the best place on earth. Here's to bursting into wild bloom. Here's to turning inside out in the process. Here's to remembering who we are. Here's to living authentically. Here's to breathing deep and being crowded with unexpected joys.

Come visit me at the Edina Art Fair! June 5th, 6th and 7th

2009-06-02T21:36:00.009-05:00

My studio is exploding with artwork in preparation for this weekend's big event: the Edina Art Fair. You can find me at booth #505--right across the street from the Edina Theater on 50th, near 50th and France in Edina.

Oooh! Oooh! Ooooh! I can't wait! OK, I'm up to my eyeballs in paint and I am once again in the process of pulling magic out of thin air. Magic: that's what I call the act of painting massively large amounts in desperately small amounts of time. I admit, I thrive under this sort of pressure. And I am very excited to unveil some of my latest work including a portrait of "Echo," the beautiful Great Dane belonging to Molly of Metro Pets. I have a few obsessions. One is big, sleek, beautiful dogs. Another is vintage signage. And, let's not forget, there's also my obsession with HUGE paintings! This one measures over 6 feet long. Oh JOY! Big enough to guarantee that I will be putting in a couple more verrry late nights in order to get it finished in time for Friday.

This is the direction I'm headed in (and getting closer!)...

I'm also obsessed with extremes. While working on Echo's giant painting, I've also been working on an entire series of 6"x6" paintings as well as creating 4" square and ATC prints. These are seriously fun! Then again, leave it up to me to make a tennis ball look moody. I've been giving my obsessive tendencies full range to play. And you know what? I feel INSPIRED!!!

Obviously, I should not be blogging. Am I even making sense? Well, if not, I'm gonna blame it on the paint fumes. All I know is that this chica is looking forward to sitting outside in my trusty ol' art fair tent for three days straight! I like to think of it as forced relaxation. Not to mention, I might get to see YOU! :)

the power of charm....

2009-05-17T21:52:00.004-05:00

Today I met with a husky mix named Sadie for a photo shoot. It was early which made for wonderful light. Sadie, along with her mom, met me at a coffee shop and--oh my(!)--I think I will be returning there often. I love finding new places that posses charm. You know, it is the little things that inspire me the most. And speaking of inspired...those eyes of Sadie's have me under a spell!

Today is another one of those days when I feel extraordinarily happy to be doing what I do. Painting intelligent, sensitive, intuitive, beautiful dogs...I mean, seriously, could it possibly get any better than this?

I can't help it. I'm still obsessed with tennis balls.

2009-05-14T17:26:00.005-05:00

I've been in the studio playing with a whole new pallette of colors.
And shapes.
And sizes.
And...

Life is good.
Stay tuned. ;)

In the spirit of collaboration...

2009-05-13T19:42:00.029-05:00

Every once in awhile life offers wonderful opportunities to collaborate--and Sarah of Sarah Beth Photography is one of the creative treats that the Universe has planted in my path. I enjoy working with Sarah whenever possible and, since a good painting often starts with a good photo...well, I think the rewards of collaborating with her are obvious.

Above is a photo that Sarah took of her dog, Gracie, who kept me company at the Animal Humane Society's Walk for Animals. Yep, that's me in the background--and Gracie is wearing a crisp new hankie in support of our friends from Pampered Pooch Playground (my dogs FAVORITE place in the ENTIRE universe!!!). While Sarah ran around with her camera capturing awesome shots of the event, Gracie and I had a good time saying hello to all the dogs and goats and people that came by my booth. The Walk was a great success with LOTS of people and BLUE skies!

Currently, I am seeking participants to become involved in a fund raising project and art exhibition in partnership with the Animal Humane Society. If you've been thinking about having your pet's portrait painted, now is your chance to have 20% of the commission cost go directly to animal rescue efforts! Sarah has kindly offered her photo shoot talents at a discounted rate. Please contact me if you're interested in learning more.

Recently Sarah and I also collaborated on a portrait of the beautiful dappled Daschund, Ms. Lola:

Lola's "papa" chose a photo of her carrying a shoe in her mouth because that is what she does most of the time. Oh, the little pink shoe. Lola is always with her beloved squeaky stuffed shoe. I love how that happens...how an image can "speak" to a person. Images hold stories. They hold memories. And they have the potential to hold incredible amounts of love. That's the part that I most enjoy capturing. Lola is one cool dog... and I only wish I had more time to just keep painting portraits of her. Gosh, I love it when I feel that way!

Roxy is another good example of collaborative inspiration. I mean, maybe it was just my imagination, but I swear I could hear a choir of angels singing every time I worked on Roxie's portrait! ha! What a beauty she is. Roxy belongs to Trish and Keith, the fantabulous owners of Pampered Pooch. Around our house we call them "Auntie Trish and Uncle Keith" because that is exactly who our dogs think they are. Actually, we usually have to whisper their names lest the dogs hear us and GO CRAZY with JOY at the thought of them!

The thing is that, when we pay attention, dogs are ALWAYS bringing people together. We talk to people, we become friends with people, sometimes we even fall in love with another person because of the dogs we spend time with.

I suppose that, for some, being a full time artist might be considered a lonely endeavor. I must admit, it is hard to get lonely when working with dogs. Dogs come with people and, often, they are the best people of all. People like Sarah and Trish and Keith are most definitely a perk in this dog-loving world I have so happily fallen into.

Sarah and I met through animal rescue work. As our creative lives continue to grow so does our friendship. One of the first collaborative projects we did together was of a dog named Mandy. Let us not forget dear Mandy!

Mandy, a whirlwind of energy, is a rescue dog whose portrait I painted for a fundraiser and art show held last November. Sarah took photos of Mandy at an adoption event in an effort to help her win the heart of a loving somebody. And it worked!

It seems to be the downfall of many artists (or critics or whoever) to sometimes get caught up in the notion that everything we do should be born out of a creative vacuum. Yes, I think it is important to have a strong style and even better to have a strong sense of self, but let's face it: it is impossible not to be, in some way, inspired by the world around us.

To me, art is a process of evolution--and I am endlessly fascinated by the way art connects us to the worlds that exist both within and around us.

And so, in the spirit of collaboration,
I leave you with the words of Helen Keller:

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

May all dogs be happy!

May the rest of us be lucky enough to be surrounded by friends
and creative cohorts who spark inspiration, allowing us to see
the details and beauties that exist beyond the scope of our own eyes.

See more great photos by Sarah here.

Animals of AHS :: Art Exhibition and Fundraiser :: project launch!

2009-04-29T12:55:00.018-05:00

CALLING ALL PET LOVERS!!!!

Dogs, cats, rats, ferrets, parrots, horses, and rabbits... all are invited to participate!

20% of all commissions associated with this project will be donated to the Animal Humane Society.

Help support animal rescue efforts by commissioning a portrait today!

Want to get involved?

Learn more about how you can help animals in need by participating in this art exhibition and fundraising opportunity here.

And if you're in the Minneapolis area, stop by my tent in the Flealess Market this Saturday, May 2nd at the Walk for Animals!

May all ANIMALS be happy!

Images from my week:

2009-04-22T16:09:00.002-05:00

My Latest Obsession:

The beauty of broken down tennis balls.

My Latest Painting:

"Lola" :: 10"x20" :: Oil on Canvas
Loolla-lo-lo-lo-lo-la-lo-lla!

Our Middle Child:

Oh, my Louie. There has never been a more special dog.

And My Biggest Temptation to Take a Cat Nap:

Ella, the babe of our house.

Life is beautiful.
I am savoring the things that surround me.

Boston Terrier Lovers Unite!

2009-04-13T22:59:00.013-05:00

Meet Bogey.
6"x6" Oil on Canvas.

The Boston Terrier Club of Connecticut will be hosting their 113th specialty show this month at the Crowne Plaza in Southbury, Connecticut.

They contacted me last summer to see if I would be willing to donate something for their silent auction to raise money for Boston Terrier rescue efforts and, of course, I was happy to! After all, Bostons ARE an exceedingly beautiful breed to paint. What is it that I love about them so much? I think it's all that black and white, those big beautiful eyes, and perfectly pint-size muscled bodies. Simply put: they have personality!

It was with perfect timing that Bogey's parents contacted me with an inquiry about commissioning a portrait. Little did they know that I would ask to use their beautiful photo for a fundraiser! The original painting has been shipped to Connecticut for a silent auction, but the desire to paint more Bostons just keeps growing!

I am happy to say that Bogey is a very well loved dog--but it makes me sad to think of all the dogs that are abandoned, neglected, or just plain unwanted. I hope this lil' painting might help pay for a Boston in need to find his or her way to a better life.

Boston Rescue could use your help. Consider adopting, fostering, or making a donation today.

In honor of all the beautiful Bogey's of the world, I will be donating 5% of all Boston Terrier commissions to BTTC until April 30th, 2009.

May all dogs be happy!

Dogs of Linden Hills meet Sarah Beth Photography!

2009-04-12T08:03:00.011-05:00

OK...I have to tell you that, this past week, I have had more fun than I even know what to do with. With the closing of my recent exhibition, Dogs of Linden Hills, a large handful of the participants and I celebrated with a photoshoot by the fantastic Sarah Ernhart of Sarah Beth Photography.

Thank you to Urbanimal of Minneapolis for allowing us access to such a perfect light-filled space for the photoshoot! We had a busy day with well over 20 dogs!

An important detail (I gotta tell you!): I am head over heels in LOVE with Sarah's work! Her style is fun, unique and fresh. To say that I enjoy collaborating with her would be an understatement! Every once in awhile, when we're really lucky, we find someone in the world that we really, truly enjoy working with. For me, Sarah is one of those people.

The past several months have been very busy and I barely left my studio for the entire months of January through March. I enjoyed it immensely, but celebrating with a photoshoot at the end of such a big project made it even better. Afterward, when Sarah showed me the photos from this shoot for the first time, I'm quite certain that my heart nearly burst with sheer giddiness! Check out some more photos from the day on Sarah's blog.

Fergie, Sydney, Isis, Bodi, Percy, Desi, Maggie, Simon, Reina, Josie, Russell, Zambizi, Wilson, Huey, Strider, Chrissy, Leo, Stella, Louie, Ella, Lou, Lola, and Luca...this is one bunch of VERY INCREDIBLE DOGS!!! There are definite benefits to the work I do locally. These dogs, they've become a little bit like family. I will be adding more of their photos to my website in the near future. But, in the meantime, I just wanna say...

Dear Minneapolis dogs, you fill my heart.

Want good photos?
Visit Sarah. I give her two thumbs and 4 paws up!
You will be amazed. I promise. :)

May all dogs be happy!

~

I wanna go to Russia.

2009-04-07T19:05:00.004-05:00

Apparently Moscow has some of the smartest strays around.
I like smart dogs.

Read more.

Desire: The Art of Living Your Passion

2009-03-27T20:47:00.014-05:00

I wrote this back in February, but (for no good reason) decided to share it with you here, today....

I want my world to open up. I want my life to include more. How is that even possible? All I know is that I have an insatiable desire to grow and learn and experience this existence to its absolute fullest.

Lately, I've been spending time hanging out with wild horses or, more specifically, with photographs of them. The more I look, the harder it becomes to pull myself away. I want to paint them and, in doing so, I imagine myself returning to some lost part of myself.

Hunched over a book or spellbound by the glow of an online image, I imagine myself standing in the middle of wild openness surrounded by the movement of horses and dogs. That's when it happens. Up come the sting of tears that tells me when I'm in the middle of something real and important. It probably sounds strange, but when I find a string of inner truth that pulls in the direction of my heart, my physical body reacts the same way every time: with tears. It's weird and amazing and I am grateful for this ever-consistent nod from the universe that says: "YES. This is it. Follow it."

These days I have been painting a lot. Being a pet portrait artist, you’d think I would get used to that. But I never do. I wish I could find the words to describe what happens in the act of painting animals--specifically, right now, a dog named Roxy. I am pulled deeply into the center of myself. It makes my skin feel thin. The layers between myself and something that I cannot explain seem to disappear. In short, I feel connected. But the feeling is more ethereal than that. Words fail to describe whatever it is that happens.

When I paint, my desires become clear. I can feel them from the inside out and when this happens the creation of those desires begin to take form. It is the beginning, the knitting together of a new reality--even when I don't yet understand what or how or why, there is something in the center of it that I know and feel my soul being pulled towards.

These days I feel a bit like a caterpillar in chrysalis. I don't know that I'll emerge as a butterfly, but I do know that a transformation is in process. Let’s face it: passion pushes us past our comfort zone—whether we think we’re ready for it or not--transformation is bound to occur.

This past year I have spent a lot of time pushing to get my dream off the ground. I pushed my work, my self, my abilities, my levels of bravery, motivation, and determination. I pushed myself physically, mentally, spiritually, and creatively. Over and over again, I nudged myself well beyond what I thought I was capable of--and, in the process, I have built something out of nothing.

But right now I don't want to push. Right now I just want to give myself over to the work at hand. I want to dive into it deeply--and I want to dream. But please note, this dream space is by no means a passive environment. It is fueled by something akin to fire. The caterpillar cloisters itself in the chrysalis because every last ounce of its energy goes into the manifestation of desire, into the creative/creation process of transformation. My chrysalis is made of paintings.

And, in this process, I am finding what has been waiting for me all along...

*Painting of "Roxy" :: 40"x30" :: Oil on Canvas

Recent Feature Interviews with Mod-Dog and the Southwest Journal!!

2009-03-25T21:28:00.007-05:00

Interview announcements...better late than never, right? Whew! It's been a busy month! I'm finally now catching up and am happy to nestle in at one of my favorite coffee shops to tell you about some of the wonderful things going on for Stray Dog Arts.

I'm proud to announce that I was recently interviewed by Mod-Dog: Modern Art for Modern Pets. I can't sing enough praise for both Mod-Dog's beautiful work and incredible site! Mod-Dog is a go-to source for all things modern and wonderful. Please do check it out!

Want to learn a little bit more about me? I invite you to give your dog a bone, pour yourself a cup of tea, and snuggle in to read my interview on Mod-Dog's blog here.

While you're at it...check out my interview with Minneapolis' Southwest Journal e-dtion here.

Happy reading!

And a great big bow-wow (thank you) to both Kari of Mod-Dog
and Moira of the Southwest Journal!

~

Dogs of Linden Hill's--Opening night! :: A celebration in images and song

2009-03-21T03:55:00.003-05:00

These past many weeks have held so much more than I could ever possibly capture in words. I've just finished creating my very first imovie--a celebration in images! The opening was over a week ago and I have not yet found the space of mind to sit down and write about it. It was a journey-and-a-half, to say the least. And now...well, now it is time to just plain celebrate.

The photos in this video were taken by the incredible Sarah of Sarah Beth Photography and my husband, Vinny. There are more words and pictures to come--but, at the moment, it is nearly 4 am and time for this lil' chica to go to bed!

Here's to what has been accomplished. Here's to all that is to come.
Cheers to you, my friends!

May all dogs be happy!

~

Divine Inspiration...

2009-02-26T10:32:00.004-06:00

"Lou, the Singing Dog"
30"x40"
Oil on Canvas

I've been meaning to post a photo of some of the work that I've been swallowed by. For now, I offer you "Lou, the Singing Dog." It's different and perhaps better than anything I've ever painted before. I try not to think about how much more I have to do. I've never had to sustain a feeling of "staying in the moment" for such a long period of time. I'll tell you, it is a discipline. Preparing for this show feels strangely spiritual. I have always felt deep emotions when I paint dogs, but this is different. This is something that exists beyond me. It's not about me, it's not even exactly about the dogs I'm painting. It's about how we experience the world. It's about being alive to the smallest moments, those nanoseconds that contain something of the entire universe.

"First Month"
20"x48"
Oil on Canvas

This particular time in my life feels immensely strange to me. Strange, that is, in a (generally) good way. Difficult too, but good. Maybe it is the long hours that I've been putting in, day after day, but this work feels a bit out-of-body.

Last night I also applied to two major art fairs. And right now I need to make a pot of coffee and head back down into the studio. I'm working on another big one. There are so many large paintings! I can't complain though. Painting big is what I love best.

There will be an opening reception for this series of paintings, Dogs of Linden Hills, at Dunn. Bros Coffee, in Linden Hills, Minneapolis. Thursday March 12th, 7-9 pm. I hope to see you there!

with love,
jessie

Ladies and Gentlemen,

2009-02-12T13:35:00.000-06:00

Meet Top Model Dog, Trixie...

Italian Greyhound extraordinaire
and (dare I say?)
QUEEN of Florida!

She is one of my most recent painting....the one that I blissfully stayed up into the wee hours of the morning putting the finishing touches on. She possesses more bling than I have ever known. Oh, but those jewels, that wink, and posture!

In honor of Trixie's portrait I dedicate today to celebrating the diva that lives inside each of us. I hereby announce you: DIVINE!

Trixie knows her inner Queen.
Do you?

"Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail.
Failure is another steppingstone to greatness." ~Oprah

Rule your own destiny.

Or as Trixie's mama always says: "Dream Big Always"

~

SAVE THE DATE!! The neighborhood has gone to the dogs...and you're invited!

2009-02-09T09:22:00.004-06:00

Well, my friends, once again I'm up to my eyeballs in paint. After a brief (blink of the eye) rest after the holidays, my studio has once again turned into an explosion of canvases and paintbrushes as I prepare for my upcoming exhibition...

DOGS OF LINDEN HILLS

showing March 3rd-31st

Dunn Bros. Coffee
2814 West 43rd St
Minneapolis, MN 55410

OPENING RECEPTION
Thursday, March 12th 7-9 pm

A bit about the show...

Last year, after completing a series of paintings, Dogs of Bryn Mawr, I discovered that I am fascinated by the way the dogs of particular neighborhoods reflect the people who live in them. I am also interested in the way dogs bring people together and create a common ground between those who might otherwise remain strangers--and I find coffee shops to be the perfect place to show this work. Why? Because coffee shops, like dogs, bring people together.

I read somewhere that one of the things that help build a strong sense of community is when neighborhoods have a gathering place. Often times, that place is a coffee shop. These layers of culture and community that are built around dogs and their people interest me greatly.

As some of us know, Linden Hills is one of the most incredible neighborhoods in Minneapolis. What makes it so good? Well, in part: THE DOGS!!

There are nearly THIRTY dogs that will be participating in the Dogs of Linden Hills. Bow-wozers!! Just for fun...imagine what that scene looks like in my studio. I'm surrounded!! You'll be able to meet many of the beautiful canines whose portraits I am painting at the opening.

Until March you will find me in only one place: yep, the studio!

In the meantime, mark your calendars!

Cozy up with a freshly roasted cup of coffee and surround yourself with dog art.
The month of March is waiting for you. ;)

May all dogs be happy!

~

Gifts...

2009-01-14T21:34:00.012-06:00

I recently got something in the mail that was one of the best gifts I have ever received.

It was a card from the Lange Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to saving impounded companion animals in the Los Angeles area.

I had never heard of the Lange Foundation, but since the envelope was addressed to me, I opened it up to see what was inside.

What I found brought tears to my eyes and broke my heart open with more gratitude than I even know what to do with.

On the outside of the card is an image with the City of Los Angeles Department of Animal Services Impound card for South LA. There is a photo of a small terrier mix with it leg bandaged up in a cast and a unsure/hopeful look in his eyes. It says that he is a stray, approximately 2 years old. They've given him the name "Chance."

And if the image wasn't enough, I opened up the card and found this on the inside:

"Dear Jessie,

Lange Foundation received a Holiday Gift of Life donation in your honor from Sassy Smith which helped to give me a future.

I was playing ball in front of my house on West 35th Street and my owner's son threw the ball across the street. Throwing caution to the wind, I went after it and that was the last thing I remember about my home.

I woke up in the hospital room at South LA sheter just in time to hear the technician say: "No hope for this one...put him on the vet's list for tomorrow." However, I guess the owner had not admitted that I was his dog, and had booked me in as a stray, so the vet said he had to hold me for 5 days. They put a bandage on my shattered leg and put me in a small cage in a cold room where the door is always locked. Apart from cleaning my cage in the morning and giving me a bowl of kibble, no one paid any attention to me.

After 5 days someone from the Lange Foundation came to the shelter. By mistake, the door had been left open. She came over to my cage and I was so embarrassed as it hadn't been cleaned. A staff member came into the room and said: "You are not allowed to be in here," and she replied: "And you are not allowed to keep animals in this condition." The man replied: "He's on the euth list," and she ended their short conversation by saying, "Not anymore."

An hour later, along with several other dogs from that horrible room, I was in her car on my way to Animal Surgery and Emergency Center.

Again, I seemed to have had a lapse of memory, but the next day I awake to find my leg in a cast and most of the pain had gone. I now have to have "cage rest" for the next 3 weeks, so I am living with the Lange lady in a big cage which overlooks the garden.

Every time she walks by she says: "Chance, this is just a temporary arrangement. Soon you will be at Halfway Home Kennel."

We will see about that!

Love,
Chance

Sassy Smith is a beautifully big-eared little Schnoodle (a schnauzer and a poodle) that I have been commissioned to paint. Remember when I mentioned how lucky I am to be painting for such wonderful and appreciative clients? Well, Sassy's "mom" is one of them.

I put my whole self into the dogs I paint. I mean, it is an oddly emotional experience. I feel all of my energy go into each painting session and at the same time I feel filled by it. It is an equal exchange of give and receive.

But then I get an unexpected letter in the mail saying that someone I only barely know has donated money in my honor AND it helped to save a beautiful dog's life. And, my gosh, this just floors me! I mean, really, when did my life get this GOOD?!

Even Ella, my rescued babe, was interested in Chance's story. That's her--the lil' black dog in the photo (above). Ella is one of the dogs in my life that has inspired me to find ways for my work to help benefit animals in need. Like many of the best things in life, Ella was "unplanned." I met her while doing a photo shoot with Ode. If it were not for people who cared, would she survived? I love my rescued girl beyond words...and I want to extend that love as far as possible. And then someone like Sassy's mom takes it even a step further.

Today (and every day!) I am grateful for the kindness of my clients. I am grateful for how much love they feel for not only their own pets, but other animals as well.

The dogs that the Lange Foundation rescues come in all shapes, colors, sizes and ages. They have rescued and placed over 20,000 cats and dogs who would otherwise have been destroyed at shelters. I am profoundly moved that someone would go out of their way to help other animals in honor of the work I do.

Thank you, Sassy.
Thank you, Marybeth.
Thank you, Lange Foundation.

Learn more about the Lange Foundation at www.langefoundation.com

May all dogs be happy!

~

LOVE--4 little letters to make you feel good

2009-01-12T23:48:00.004-06:00

Today I am in love.

I am in love with what I do.
I am in love with life.
I am in love with winter and the gentle snow that falls outside my window.
I am in love with my dogs.
I am in love with my husband.
I am in love with burning candles and hot cocoa.
I am in love with all that is possible.
I am in love with all that is now.

I've been thinking a lot lately about how lucky I am to be doing the work that I do. I LOVE my job. I love it so much that I find it difficult to even call it a job. It's not a job. It's a passion. It's an obsession. It is love.

Today, as I worked in my studio, I thought about luck and love and about how we attract people and circumstances into our lives. I thought about how good it feels to have connected with so many incredible clients. Commissioned work is an interesting phenomena. For me, painting is personal and I am amazed--each and every time--how appreciative, gracious, flexible, and wonderful my clients are. Actually, I find it difficult to call them clients. They are so much more than that!

Yes, and so today I dedicate to love. Capital L.O.V.E. (Come on...let me say it just one more time) I love what I do. And I fall in love with the dogs I paint...over and over and over. My heart is a broken record--and, I admit, it feels good.

When I love, things make more sense.
Perhaps, more than anything, that is what draws me to this work.

an inspired life...

2008-12-31T10:35:00.001-06:00

I feel refreshed today. As long as I don't think too hard about the long to-do list that grows each time I give my attention to it, I feel like I've entered yet another new beginning. I am bringing my very first year of the creation of Stray Dog Arts to a close...and I am looking forward to all that the next year will bring.

This morning I feel like anything is possible. I feel hopeful, expectant. I believe that, in my own way, I am capable of changing the world for the better. For me, that change comes through helping dogs in need. It comes through my art--both painting and writing. It comes from following my heart and, in turn, sharing that journey with others who are trying to find their way to their own heart's path.

What if we really, truly believed in ourselves? What if we actually did all the things that we are pulled to do? What if we let inspiration lead us in whatever direction it might take us--however unexpected?

Today I can feel my heart. And, even better, I can feel what it wants from me.

It has been a successful year of finding myself. It contained the full range of highs and lows and, in the process, I came to know myself better than I ever have before. I feel a sense of confidence that has deepened and expanded the possibilities in my life. The terrain has been sometimes treacherous in getting to this place, but I'm loving the view from where I now stand. I'll probably be tested over and over again--even so, I'm beginning to understand that taking those lessons in stride will always bring me to an even better place than the one I leave behind.

Today I am thankful for this space and time to reflect. It is good to be reminded that everything we do does matter. What we are capable of matters. We matter. Our hearts' desires matter. Our passion, our inspiration, our dreams--they matter because they are capable of changing everything.

And a beautiful example lives through Maggie Doyne.

Watch. Enjoy. Dream.
And most importantly: Do.

That's me in the middle. In the Himalayas of Ladahk (northern India). Circa 1997.
My heart feels pulled.
May I return someday soon.

Namaste,
Jessie

~

lately...

2008-12-18T23:25:00.000-06:00

if my life were a painting...

2008-12-17T09:25:00.014-06:00

Recently completed portrait:
"Mr. Pete"
12"x 12" Oil on Canvas

Artist's note: It's easy to fall in love with a dog named "Mr. Pete." Oh, those deep brown eyes, that snuggle-bum paw and kissable nose. I admit: I fell for him. ;)

* * *

These days I have been busy painting and planning and reading and dreaming. My world is covered in a deep blanket of snow. It is a soft phthalo blue in the shadows and a dazzling burst of sunrise in places where morning brushes another layer to its surface.

Last night I drove through downtown Minneapolis in a blizzard. After several days (weeks) of losing myself to the last minute influx of holiday commissions, it felt surreal to be out in the world for the pleasure of dinner. Cars occasionally skidded on a patch of ice or crust of accumulated snow. I was but one slow moving car in a stream of many.

To my left I saw several dozen individuals huddled together inside a bus stop shelter. They all had funny looking winter hats on. They all had dark colored jackets. They all stood stiffly, close to each other but with invisible thresholds holding them in solitude. In the cold, waiting for the bus, they stood in unison and worlds apart. A yellow light from the top of the shelter shined down on all of them. I wanted to paint that scene--so strangely beautiful in its normalcy.

To my right, there was a young woman, perhaps in her early 20s. She trudged down the neon light-filled sidewalk with determination. She had a strong, but petite body and a wonderful red and white winter hat with long tassles, one flying in the wind and the other caught in the folds of her heavy jacket. There was something about her that made me smile. Her movement, her energy (she seemed more alive than most), her reflection in the glass windows along the 900 block of Hennepin Ave. I wanted to paint her also--in motion, if that could be possible. In motion with lights that look real.

I drove and I wanted to paint everything. And I wanted to transplant a dog into every scene.

That's what happens when I paint a lot. Everything becomes a painting. I find myself living in a world where everything is a potential creation. Once, I went out for lunch with another pet portrait artist and the silver tray they served our food on became a painting.

I get lost like this sometimes. And, I must admit, I do love the way it feels.

I woke up this morning wanting to be more. I want to capture everything. I want to give myself completely to every waking second of my life. And yet, I know this isn't completely possible....but there is a freedom inside this thought that I am attracted to.

These days, I am attracted to the feeling of freedom. The best part of it is that I am invited to experience it over and over and over and over... We all are. And all we have to do is give ourselves to it.

I like imagining what my life and the world around me would look like if it were a painting. The desire to know self and place from the inside out? The desire to put words or brush strokes to every last beating second--if only to catch a glimpse of myself...

Featured!! Current and Belated and Current...

2008-12-01T15:07:00.020-06:00

I'm happy to share that I am currently being featured in the latest issue of Australia's Urban Animal Magazine. 60 pages of full color glossy reading pleasure! I've been reading their publication ever since Stray Dog Arts was born and have enjoyed many good articles and lots of food for thought.

I feel very honored to be one of their featured artists from around the world.

What Urban Animal has to say about itself:

Urban Animal is a FREE Sydney-based & distributed quarterly, 40,000 copy, 60 page plus, tabloid sized full-colour glossy publication--a lifestyle magazine for animal lovers--celebrating our contemporary pets and our relationships with them. For those with a 'pet lifestyle' and love of our furred, feathered, finned and even scaly companions, we provide entertaining, informative and ethical editorial without advertorial for a witty and stylish look at life shared with our urban animal family.

You can check out Urban Animal for yourself here.

But wait! That's not all! I have another (woefully belated) feature article announcement:

Stray Dog Arts was also featured in the
Fall issue of Modern Dog Magazine!!!

I can't believe that I didn't mention this earlier (where did time go???). Oh, but this announcement was just too good to pass up. I am so very proud of the wonderful full-page feature article written by the talented Marni Wedin.

Modern Dog, the Canadian lifestyle magazine for dogs and their companions, is one of my favorite doggie magazines of all. Great articles, incredible photography, and so much delicious STUFF! Thoughtful and trendy all at once? Yep--this is an urban chic dog magazine at its finest. You can read my "Art Attack" feature in the Fall 2008 issue here.

Another reason I love Modern Dog is because a large part of their mission is "to support the efforts of organizations that work tirelessly to assist abused, neglected or homeless dogs." These are my kind of people. If I wasn't already blessed with a job that I love (painting dogs)...you can bet that I'd be asking them to hire me!

Australia, Canada...I am happy beyond words to be reaching an international audience. But there is another very important aspect of my work--and that is the dogs of my own city: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. What do these dogs spell? H.O.M.E.

The latest and most current feature was bestowed upon me by Sidewalk Dog, Inc. in their "Gifts to Delight Dogs and Dog Lovers." Let me just say that I LOVE Sidewalk Dog! Founded by two extraordinary women, Alice and Ali are at the hub of Minneapolis canine culture, urban style. Keep your eyes open for upcoming events, awesome articles, and an online directory of dog-friendly businesses worth checking out. You can visit Sidewalk Dog here.

Signing off with much gratitude,
Jessie

Lovely Letters and Words :: Now Available! ::

2008-11-25T21:59:00.012-06:00

I bet you thought that I only painted dogs. Well, the truth is that I paint mostly dogs. I paint dogs on a full-time basis, but (SURPRISE!!!) I also paint cats and people and coffee cups and letters and landscapes and.... I guess you could say that this is one of the things I love most about being a "stray dog." There's always room for discovery, play, and adventure. Or, at least, there should be!

I am proud to announce that I finally, yes FINALLY, have brand-spankin'-new alphabet prints for sale on "other" Etsy. Just in time for the holidays. ;) These are Giclee Fine Art prints on gallery stretched canvas, each measuring 8"x 8". I don't mean to brag, but they doooo look pretty dang cool. Hang alone, build words, spell names, or collect the whole alphabet.

SPELL YOUR PETS' NAMES!!!
You know they'll love you for it!

I have had so much fun with this project. It started out as a commission, but somewhere along the lines, took on a life of its own. It has taken me many months to complete, but was well worth the energy. The originals are 18"x 18" oil on canvas and will be installed in a grid to create an 8 foot x 8 foot alphabet masterpiece. Each piece was inspired by vintage metal or wood signage--from Las Vegas bone yard signage to Minneapolis cafes (and everywhere in between!). Would it be obvious if I told you: I have acquired a newfound love of LETTERS!!

They have now been added to my Patch of Sky Etsy and are available for purchase. Keep an eye out because I will be adding words and prints on a regular basis! :) In the meantime, hopefully this will be enough to get you started. ;)

Visit my Patch of Sky Etsy here:

Happy Spelling!!!

...and Thanksgiving love to everyone!

* * *

P.S.
don't forget to check out the Stray Dog Arts Etsy while you're at it! :)

Stepping in...

2008-11-19T12:49:00.002-06:00

I returned home last night after spending a couple days immersed in the world of Red Lake Rosie's--an animal rescue situated on the Red Lake Indian Reservation of northern Minnesota. It seems that, lately, blog posts are not easy to write. Seriously, where to begin?

At the moment I am listening to the snuggle-puffin-play of Louie and Ella at my feet (Ella is a Red Lake Rosie's pup herself). They are happy that I'm home and are staying close to my side. To begin writing, I find the need to root myself in the moment. It is a gray almost-winter day that I am balancing with the glow of lamplight and a fresh mug of coffee--a habit I'm becoming accustomed to. I've decided to move through the day in a sacred way. A quiet way. I'm going to get a lot done, but I'm going to honor every action--and writing this post is my way of making sense of everything I experienced in the past 2 days. Of course, making sense of it could take days, weeks, months, years. Instead, perhaps I am sitting here with the intention of sharing--because I think we are capable of much more than we often give ourselves credit for. Karen Good, the woman behind Red Lake Rosie's, is an incredible example of what it means to make a difference.

But wait. I don't want to get sentimental and overly idealistic. Maybe I should start over.

This week I traveled 5 hours north and met a woman named Karen. 3 years ago she was driving to work taking photos of all the dead dogs laying on the side of the road between her house and Red Lake High School. There were more than 20. That was the day of the Red Lake shootings. Karen remembers the smell of gunpowder and fear. That day was also a turning point in her life. It was the day she brought her first stray dog home with her. Maybe it was then that the shift occurred--in the act of deciding to pull over and pick up a dog that needed help. It started out with one dog and then turned into another and another and another. Red Lake Rosie's was born and, since then, she has saved the lives of hundreds.

Karen is quite possibly the most incredible combination of ordinary and extraordinary that I have ever met. She is real. She is down to earth. She is hard-wearing, determined, humble, and intelligent. Her and her boyfriend, Kevin, sing together as she works--the sound of their voices weave together, causing shivers to run the length of my body. Karen has an open heart. She tells it like it is. She doesn't shy around the facts. She knows how to organize and delegate. Karen is a visionary. She has a name for every animal she brings in and knows exactly who each one is. Karen, to me, feels like a grandmother, mother, and sister--all at once. She is fierce, yet feminine. There has both incredible softness and strength in her. She is a teacher, of the truest kind.

Marilou, me, and Karen.

The shelter.

Many animals rescued suffer from disease, starvation, dehydration, mange or injury. The property behind Karen's house marks the beginning of a better life for all the animals that are lucky enough to find their way to Red Lake Rosie's.

Being swarmed by puppy love. I would have liked to simply lay down on the ground and be covered in snuggle kisses! But there was work to do, so I soaked up the love vertically instead.

100% certified Munchkin.
One of the pups at Red Lake Rosie's

The "big" dog clan.

These rescue dogs roam free, but never far from the place they are happy to call home.

This is "Rea Ann," a beagle (and possibly hound?) mix. She is one of the dogs we transported back with us to Minneapolis. Her shy, anxious nature reminded me of my babe, Louie. It breaks my heart to see a dog feeling nervous or scared. Mike, a volunteer at Red Lake Rosie's, was obviously a source of comfort for her. I can't wait to see who adopts her. She is going to be so happy with her new life. In the meantime, she will live with Ann, one of Pet Haven's best fosters. Rae Ann will be with someone who will help let her brightest light shine.

Treats!
Karen feeds a gaggle of hungry dogs and pups canned dog food from a spoon.
They're crazy about it! They're crazy about her. ;)

This is "Mama." She stole my heart. Maybe it was because she reminded me of Sam, one of the first dogs whose transport I was involved with. Although Mama is still skinny, she is putting on weight after being found, just a rack of bones. Her eyes were pleading. I took her for an extra long walk and wish we could have gone even further. It was snowing and she was beautiful to be with. What these dogs want more than anything is love. I wanted to fold her up in my arms and hold her forever.

The "Cat House." This is Karen's old house, which has since been renovated into space to house rescued cats along with a guest room for people like Marilou and I. Have you ever fallen asleep to a room full of kittens purring and meowing? Well, I can now say that I have. It felt good to once again be sleeping in the middle of nowhere.

Morning chores. Life with dogs.

This is "Chief." And he certainly had the personality of one.
His breed and boldness made Marilou and I think of Ode.

Chief helping himself to a snack from the food bucket.

Bear kisses from Lauren.

We transported 3 cats to St. Cloud and 7 dogs back to Minneapolis with us. I picked out this big pup for my friend, Mary, to foster. The puppy's name is Lauren, but if it was up to me, I would name her "Bear." Honestly, I think this brown lab mix IS part bear cub! She is the biggest bunch of lumbering bear fluff I've ever met. Somehow, I hope that this pup stays in my life forever. I think she will--even if only through her ability to rearrange my heart molecules. How else could one heart hold this much love?

I'm already looking forward to my return. I have a feeling that it will be often.

Learn more about Red Lake Rosie's Rescue here.

~

Opening Night: a celebration in images

2008-11-16T22:01:00.017-06:00

Cuppa Java.

Opening night crowd.

Me--feeling happy, exhausted, satisfied, blessed.

My Ella bean.

The biggest highlight of my night: meeting Ella's mama, Evy.

Ella might not look much like her mama, but I now know where she got her personality from!

Bella's "grandpa" taking in the show.

My brother, Nelson: The Thinker.
My brother and sister have come to all of my openings. I love them for this. :)

Tucker, a neighborhood dog, wanting in.

Tucker, the neighborhood dog, actually getting to come in!
Dogs allowed. One night only. ;)

A view from the side.

Missy, my soon-to-be new studio mate.

"Spice Girl...(aka Bella)"
Although I do not have a photo of it...the other biggest highlight of my night was seeing Bella reuniting with her foster mama, Ann. Such joy! Such excitement! Such LOVE! They were in their own world. So happy to see each other. It took my breath away. It took everyone's breath away.

Gus...the laughing Buddha!
Gus, formally known as "Snuggles" is blind...but oh so happy!

It was TRULY a night of bliss.

Thank you to everyone who was there!
And, if you weren't there, hopefully these photos will help you to pretend. ;)
Thank you Gus, Mandy, Missy, Ella, Peanut, Hazel, Koda, Bella, Evy, and Japser!
Thank you Pet Haven.

Thank you, Universe...for helping me make my life look like this.
:)

WOOF!

~

Stray Dog Arts invites you!

2008-11-11T11:45:00.013-06:00

"Mandy"
Oil on Canvas

Please join me and the dogs of Pet Haven for an opening reception at Cuppa Java wine and coffee bar.

Thursday, November 13th at 7:30pm

RESCUED: Dogs of Pet Haven
Recent Works by Jessie Marianiello

Showing at:

Cuppa Java
400 Penn Ave. South
Minneapolis, MN 55405

Exhibition will be open
for the month of November

In celebration of new beginnings, here's to honoring the unique beauty of all animals in need!

* * *

Artist's Statement:

My latest series of paintings is focused on dogs that have been given an incredible second chance. These are dogs that would probably not be here today if it were not for the collaborative efforts of people who care. Some of them have already been adopted, some of them are still waiting to find their forever home—but every dog comes with a story—a story that, through the act of painting, I strive to capture, honoring the unique beauty of each.

Jasper, despite his gentle soul, came from an overflowing shelter in Iowa and was scheduled for euthanasia. If it were not for the woman at the shelter who put out a call for help, if it were not for all the people involved in his rescue efforts…Jasper would be dead.

Hazel, a Hurricane Katrina dog, is still waiting to find her new family. She is looking for YOU. She’s been waiting for over two years.

Koda, a beautiful white husky, was left in an abandoned house, only to be found when it was discovered that the pipes had burst in the cold of winter. Koda is up for adoption. She is looking for the warmth and love that perhaps you can provide?

Peanut, along with several other dogs, a victim of dog hoarding, was found neglected and starving.

Spice Girl (now Bella), was found as a stray with her back leg injured, most likely hit by a car. She would not have survived without medical attention. She carried a litter of pups, of which only 2 out of the 5 survived. Her leg required amputation and they also learned that she’s deaf. But there’s a better part to this story: a family who loves her beyond words has adopted her. Her leg has healed. Her strength and beauty persists.

Eve (now Ella) nestled her way into my heart and has since joined our family and made herself very much at home. She is what I call an “occupational hazard”—one that I am grateful for every single day.

These are just some of the dogs I've painted. There's also Missy, Snuggles, Evangeline, and Mandy. Since beginning this journey of painting rescue dogs my life and work has taken on whole new levels of meaning. My heart can break open a million times during the course of the day, but it always comes back to hope, love and resilience.

It is my hope that this show will help some of these dogs get noticed—especially the ones that have fallen between the cracks, the ones that are in danger of being forgotten. What if every dog I painted got adopted? I wish for that. I hope for that. Lately, I find myself hoping for a lot of things. I like the way hope feels—even if it brings tears to my eyes on a regular basis. My heart feels rubbed raw, as though it is ready to burst. I admit that I think I even like the way this rawness feels. However uncomfortable, it makes me feel alive. It connects me. It breaks me open. These dogs fill my heart in a way that nothing else does.

* * *

If you’re interested in adoption or volunteering please visit Pet Haven’s website at www.PetHavenMN.org

In honor of the dogs that have changed my life, I am donating 20% of original artwork sales and commissioned pet portraits to animal rescue efforts until December 31st, 2008.
HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES ARE AVAILABLE!

To commission a pet portrait of your own, please contact me.

May all dogs be happy!

notes from the studio...

2008-10-29T09:32:00.019-05:00

This morning my heart feels full. I look up and a bright red cardinal lands on the bare branch outside the window. In a colorless late-autumn landscape, the color shocks me. The branch bows and drops with the cardinal's slight weight. I feel a similar weight in my heart and the sight is nearly enough to bring tears to my eyes. The branch springs back into place as the cardinal flies away and a chickadee settles onto the branch above.

These days, I am up to my eyeballs in paint. I'm preparing for an upcoming exhibition, RESCUED: Dogs of Pet Haven. I will be displaying a sneak preview of the series at Pet Haven's Fall Benefit on Saturday and will hang the rest of the show Sunday night. Needless to say, the pressure is on. Luckily, when it comes to art making, I seem to thrive under pressure.

Last night, in need of a break, I sat on the floor with my sleepy pup, Ella, and studied/scrutinized the work surrounding me. There are now so many paintings that I've run out of room to hang them. Before sitting down I had been working on the portrait of a beautiful boxer/American Bull dog mix named Spice Girl (now Bella, her adopted name). She was rescued by Karen Good of Red Lake Rosie's Rescue. Her back led was injured when they found her, and she carried a litter of pups, of which only 2 out of the 5 survived. Her leg required amputation but has healed well. The best part of this story is that she's been adopted by a family who loves her beyond words. There is a strength in her that had me hooked from the moment I laid eyes on her photograph.

As I work on her portrait her gentle eyes and strong demeanor cause my heart to break open. Sitting on the floor, with my pup snuggled warmly on my lap, I noticed that my work has "matured" in the past year. The thought struck me as odd since it is a concept that I would normally attribute to the work of musicians as they grow into their work....musicians like Norah Jones or Ani Difranco or Bonnie Raitt--the ones that started young, got famous, and stuck with it. Perhaps it isn't so much that my work has matured, rather that it has become more purposeful. As I find myself more deeply involved in my endeavors, it is interesting to me how this deepening shows up on the canvas as well. I don't get used the sensation of my heart breaking open, no matter how many times it happens in a day or a year. I think, instead, I've become more sensitive to it.

The other day I finished a portrait of Hazel, a pit bull mix also taken in by Pet Haven. Hazel is a Hurricane Katrina dog and, two years later, is still waiting to find her forever home. I can't tell you how badly I hope that this painting will help her get adopted. The painting captured such a look of yearning. She splinters my whole being into a million pieces.

Then there's Peanut. I have to admit that I love the way Peanut and Hazel bring balance to one another. In painting Peanut's portrait I was overcome by a feeling of sheer joy and exuberance. I mean, just look at her! Peanut was rescued from a hoarding situation where she was neglected and starving.

And this is what I love about rescued dogs: their resilience.

My heart can break open a million times during the course of the day, but it always comes back to hope, to love and, yes, to resilience. All I know is that I am profoundly grateful to be doing this work. These days I have been painting from the time I get up until the time I go to bed. Despite the exhaustion it produces, I would not give this up for anything.

In my studio, I have what I call the "Wall of Dogs." It is where I put all the photographs of the dogs I've painted. The wall is full. But not nearly as full as my heart.

Next week I will be moving into a new studio space. Oh, sweet anticipation! It's a good thing because, currently, I am bursting out of the seams of the space I'm in now. I'm looking forward to the extra space for many reasons...and with it will come an even bigger "Wall of Dogs." My only question is: how many dogs can one heart hold? I have a feeling that the answer to that is: a lot.

Save the Date: Opening Reception
RESCUED: Dogs of Pet Haven
Where: Cuppa Java, 400 Penn Ave S. Minneapolis, MN 55405
When: Thursday, November 13th, 7:30 pm

(show will run for the month of November.)

~

Meet Koda

2008-10-22T21:59:00.016-05:00

I have just put the finishing touches on a portrait of a dog named Koda. Although I've never met this dog, I've fallen in love with him. I tend to fall in love with dogs in the act of painting them--but I think I've fallen a little harder for this beautiful spirit because he reminds me of my wolfie, Anu. There is a sense of softness about him that is counterbalanced by those piercing eyes--gentle, yet keenly aware.

I began this portrait last week while up north on a week long painting retreat. As I painted, I looked often at Anu...studying where the black of her mouth meets the white of her chin, analyzing the marks around her eyes, deciphering the contours of her face and body in in terms of light and shadow, expression and mood. I could see age settling in on her and it broke my heart. But I also saw how age has brought us to know each other and has endowed her with a different way of seeing--less fierce, more wise.

Koda reminds me of Anu's younger self. He reminds me of winter. Somehow, he reminds me of my past. He causes me to feel tender and intense, all at once.

The thing I love most about painting dogs is that there are never two paintings even remotely alike. Koda has been up for adoption for a long time now. One would think that a beautiful dog like him would get snatched up in a heart beat--but it often amazes me how long it sometimes takes for even the best dogs to get adopted. Luckily, Koda is in good hands and, even as I write this, he is nestling himself into the hearts of his foster family. He is being well taken care of. And yet it breaks my heart to think of all the dogs that are simply put to sleep for lack of better options. Koda was left behind in an abandoned house and was only found when it was discovered that the pipes had burst. Koda was rescued--which makes him one of the lucky ones.

Today I brought my husband, Vinny, to see the new studio space for the first time--oh, and it is such an incredible space! Since I won't move in until November, the best we could do was peek in the windows. On our way there we passed the city pound. Vinny told me that, while he was there to get licenses for the dogs, he noticed two big books on the counter. One filled with photos of dogs being kept in the shelter...and another one filled with all the dogs that have been euthanized. It stuns me to think of the many beautiful beings that this happens to every minute of every day. Then I think of all the people working to make a difference--one dog at a time--and I see how it matters.

These days my studio at home is filled with dogs. I love walking in and seeing their faces shining from one canvas after another. At the moment I am up to my elbows in paint as I prepare for an exhibition of Pet Haven rescue dogs that I will hang in 2 weeks. Some of the dogs have already been adopted and some of them are still waiting to find their forever home. But every dog comes with a story--a story that I hope to capture, even if in some small way.

I hope that this show will help some of these dogs get noticed. What if every dog I painted got adopted? I wish for that. I hope for that. Lately, I find myself hoping for a lot of things. I like the way hope feels--even if it brings tears to my eyes on a regular basis. My heart feels rubbed raw and as though it is ready to burst. I admit that I think I even like the way this rawness feels. However uncomfortable, it makes me feel alive. It connects me. It breaks me open.

A big thank you to Minneapolis photographer, Jessica Hackner of Half Light Photo, for sharing
her photographs of Koda. There's nothing better than painting from a beautiful photograph!

2008 Fundraising Promotion!

2008-08-22T22:51:00.000-05:00

It was Monday, July 21st when I first heard the story of a dog that has since changed my life. Her name is Ode (pronounced O-Day), meaning "heart" in Ojibway. Ode, just a puppy, was found with both her ears intentionally burned off. She was the victim of unimaginable torture--but I am happy to say that she has been given an incredible second chance. Little did I know how deeply her story would affect me and how swiftly she would alter my life and work.

In early August I met Ode for a photo shoot in preparation for a portrait that I would eventually paint of her for a silent auction to help raise money for other animals in need. The day I met Ode was the day that I stepped over a threshold--and, when it happened, I knew that there would be no turning back.

As an artist and animal lover it is important that my work hold meaning. To live a purposeful and satisfying life takes great amounts of bravery. For me, that act of bravery was in taking the leap towards becoming a full time pet portrait artist. Recently, through Ode, that leap has grown to include a commitment to helping abused and abandoned animals. Over and over again, through painting, I am graced with opportunities that allow me to experience the deepest imaginable love. Pure. Egoless. Unconditional.

In honor of Ode, I will be donating 20% of all commissioned portraits and a substantial portion of greeting card sales to animal rescue efforts until December 31st, 2008.

By commissioning a portrait of the pets who have changed your life, you will be helping the lives of many more animals in need. A 50% nonrefundable deposit is required for all commissioned work and must be received no later than December 31st, 2008 in order to be included in this fundraising promotion. Your deposit will hold your place on the waiting list.

The Commission Process:

Contact me.
Send me photos preferably as email attachments. Snail mail is acceptable, but please no originals, since photos will not be returned.
If possible and/or necessary, scheduling a photo shoot is an option if you live in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Travel and transportation per diem required outside 20 mile radius of Minneapolis, MN. When possible, I truly enjoy the opportunity to meet the dogs I paint.
50% nonrefundable deposit due. If definite size and/or dimensions have not yet been decided on, approximate payment must still be made to hold your place on the waiting list. Your place will not be held until deposit is made. If a photo shoot is scheduled, your deposit will be due at that time.
Sign a Fine Arts Commission Contract once details have been decided on (two copies--one for each of us) .
I will begin your painting as soon as possible. I currently have a small window of time open in November/December (2008) and will be booked again until late spring/early summer (2009).
Remaining amount of commission due once the painting is completed. Full payment (+ shipping, if applicable) required before delivery.
Hang your new painting on the wall for you and your pet to enjoy!
Then feel good about the fact that a large portion of your commissioned pet portrait went to a very good cause. The rescued animals thank you. As do I!

Note: It is not necessary to decide on the exact dimensions of the painting since it is often best to let the photo do some of the deciding. However, if you know an approximate size or price range that you would like to stay within, I am happy to work with you to come up with something that fits your wallet, your walls, AND your pet!

Can't decide if it's worth it? Watch this video. Ode, my inspiration.

Video and photography by Marilou Chanrasmi.
Proceeds of fundraising promotion will be donated to Pet Haven.
www.pethavenmn.org

Special thank you to Karen Good of Red Lake Rosie's Rescue
and to all the volunteers of Pet Haven Inc. of Minnesota.

May all animals be happy!

*promotion excludes Dogs of Linden Hills project participants .
(exhibition participants please contact me if you're interested in donating)*
~

Spending power: Helping animals in need

2008-08-22T09:28:00.000-05:00

Finally, what kitten lovers have been waiting for!

Dear Kitten Lovers,

You didn't think I would forget you, did you? Well, "kittens happen"! Kitten cards are available either singly or in sets of 6 at my Stray Dog Arts Etsy. Buy one for yourself and all your kitten loving friends!

50 cents per kitten card will go to help support animal rescue.

Go ahead--help a cat in need.

* * *

And reordered due to popular demand, these dogs are back in stock too!

"Let there be no purpose in friendship save the deepening of spirit."
~Kahlil Gibran
*

"The authentic self is the soul made visible." ~ Sarah Ban Breathnach
~

50 cents per card will be donated to help support animal rescue.

In honor of Ode, our newly adopted puppy Ella (photos coming soon!),
and all the animals in need.

Visit Stray Dog Arts Etsy here.

Donations will be given to Pet Haven rescue with love from Stray Dog Arts

(donation applies to individually packaged cards only)
~

Ode's portrait

2008-08-14T22:43:00.000-05:00

Ode--she is a brave spirit. So brave, in fact, that she changes every single person who comes in contact with her. Myself included. She is, after all, the one responsible for altering the mission of Stray Dog Arts.

Painting dogs has led me home (home, that is, to my truest self), but Ode is the one who opened up the heart of this home in a way that I was unable to imagine before her.

Ode, pronounced "O-Day," is Ojibwa for "heart"--and full of heart, she is! At 14 weeks old she was wandering with both of her ears burned off, scared, and in pain. Since that day, Ode has made an incredible recovery--not only physically, but emotionally as well. She is currently being fostered by in incredible family along with another puppy, Eve (who, I'm happy to say, we're adopting!).

Ode has opened up doors and windows and friendships and opportunities that have altered everything for me. This little pup who was horrifically abused and then abandoned has opened up my eyes to a whole new way of being. If there are angels on earth, then Ode is surely one of the most high spirited among them. Sweet Ode, what an incredible teacher she is.

This particular painting will be donated to a silent auction for Pet Haven's Fall Benefit. It is also the first painting in the series of many that will promote animal rescue efforts.

This is just the beginning....

* * *

Dear Ode,

Thank you for breaking me open.
Thank you for sparking an entire world of possibility.
Thank you for leading me to our new puppy, Eve.
Thank you for showing me that everything is possible.
Thank you for connecting me with Marilou and Pet Haven rescue.
Thank you for your rambunctious, bubble-loving energy.
Thank you for showing me that there is always hope.
Thank you for teaching me the importance of letting go.
Thank you for being a living example of bravery.
Thank you for changing the world, just by being you.
Thank you for teaching me how all of us can make the world better by simply being our truest self.
Thank you for helping me get over my self-doubt and fear over whether or not I will be successful.
Thank you for showing me another way of seeing.
Thank you for leading me to endeavors that support me--inside and out.
Thank you for being an inspiration.
Thank you for playing ball with me and jumping on me and showing me how you can run.
Thank you for helping me be a better person.
Thank you for bringing me to this place of open-hearted love.
Thank you for showing me that anything is possible when you BELIEVE.

Thank you for changing my life.
Ode, I love you.

your friend forever,
Jessie

*read more about Ode's story here and here.
**and you just MUST look at this photo of Ode with her best friend, Eve (aka. the new baby of our family). Now that's friendship. ;)

CALL FOR DOGS!!!

2008-06-30T20:30:00.000-05:00

Does your dog live, work, or play in Linden Hills (Minneapolis, MN)? If so, I'm looking for great dogs to participate in an upcoming exhibit: Dogs of Linden Hills.

Click on the images to read more:

~

Dog Lovers Night Out at Cue

2008-06-17T22:32:00.000-05:00

Have you ever had the urge to take your dog out for dinner? Not just any dinner, but a exceptionally delicious dinner? Well, now is your chance!

Register now to attend Dog Lovers Night Out at Cue at the Guthrie, hosted by sidewalk dog, inc.

Save the date: June 25th, 2008 @ 6pm

I am happy to announce that I (along with my plethora of easels, paintings, cards, and love of dog-friendly dining) will be there as a sponsor. I hope to see you there!

May all dogs eat well.
:)