Howdy! I’m Lewie, the lovable Boston terrier with a heart as big as my goofy grin. My days are a tail-wagging adventure, and I’ve got a delightful tale about my artistic escapades in an art studio with my wonderful human Leslie.
Picture this: I was just a little furball of joy when Leslie first scooped me up. Destiny had its paws all over me. Leslie, a sweet soul, spends her days in a cozy art studio surrounded by an explosion of colors and the scent of oil paints. She’s a still-life painter with a soft spot for silverware — she paints it in all shapes and sizes.
My daily routine involves the noble task of warming Leslie’s feet. You see, the studio can get a bit chilly and I’ve got a built-in foot warmer feature. I snuggle up at her feet — and voilà! Toasty toes and a happy artist.
But that’s not all: I’m also the self-appointed inspiration assistant. When Leslie needs a break, I eagerly offer my leash-holding services for a walk. You wouldn’t believe how invigorating a stroll through the woods can be for an artist’s creativity. And let me tell you, I’m the best leash-holder in the business.
Leslie paints portraits of heirloom silver and copper. She’s interested in the histories and lifespans of these objects, their ability to reflect personal life stories and family histories, and the way they continue to connect individuals to one another in time and space. In her paintings, she explores the character evident in their inherent design and ever-changing patina.
Each singular object’s form, condition, polish and character transform an otherwise functional object into something rich with history and artistic beauty, with the power to reflect life stories and family histories in the process.
Leslie starts by collecting the objects. Sometimes we adventure to flea markets together; friends lend her shiny things; or she digs around in her own collection of heirlooms. Next, she photographs the object she wants to paint to capture the light and reflection. Then Leslie draws the composition onto the panel. After that, the painting process begins with a monochromatic underpainting. Then — my favorite part — she begins layering the colors and the painting comes alive.
Now, let me tell you about my biggest hope and daily effort. Every day, as Leslie delicately composes her silverware subjects, I carefully position myself in the art studio. My ultimate goal is to become a subtle part of every painting. You see, if I position myself just right, my small but charming image reflects in the silver objects. I like to think of myself as the furry muse, an artistic touch to Leslie’s still-life creations. Can you spot me?
Now, as I revel in the vibrant world of an art studio, occasionally gracing it with my presence in the reflections, Leslie and I create our masterpiece of companionship, laughter and a touch of artistic mayhem. Life is a canvas, and I’m just a paw print on the masterpiece of Leslie’s heart.
Woof and paint on!