There’s nothing like welcoming a new granddaughter with a personalized piece of art. She was born in December 2018, and her name was not revealed until after her birth. I had my work cut out for me to finish these canvas blocks before our first visit. I love using imagery from children’s art, so I borrowed from this portrait of a past family dog that was done by my son (my grandchild’s father) when he was about six. The elements of nature were perfect for a little girl with a name that evokes sunshine, flowers, and busy little bees.

I love this portrait of Jessi, our Rhodesian Ridgeback, created many years ago. I love how my son captured the ridge on her back, but contrary to how depicted, she never bared her teeth!