Community Gallery
The community members that participate in each workshop receive expert tuition in painting from the project team, as well as established and emerging artists from their local region. Some participants have never painted before and the workshops encourage all levels of skill. Participants are invited to also reflect on the relationship they have with their pets.
Deki by Barb
“I would like to capture his happy sensitive side! … I don’t know how to paint and I would like to learn and I also hope to have a pic of Deki that I might like to look at!”
Milton by Joanna
“I would like to capture his affection, his trust, his intelligence, his age (Milton is very old now) … [the workshop] is an opportunity to begin my painting journey by having artists and teachers show me how to paint my bestest ever pet of my life.”
Maggie by Monique
“I would like to capture her inquisitive playfulness. And to have fun and have something special to take home at the end."
Frosty by Jen
“Frosty is a smart dog who is not rattled by much. While he has a big personality and is very 'talkative', I have tried to capture his calm and protective side. I also love this image as it is from a photo my daughter took in our backyard when the sunset made everything golden. Frosty (or Frog) is the kind of dog everyone falls in love with. He made friends with everyone at the vet surgery, he is a favourite at the cafe near our shack and is well known around where we live. I feel so lucky to have found a dog who is such a kind and loving companion. No matter what is going on, time spent with him makes things better.
The workshop was literally a dream come true - to paint at art school with guidance from the experts was something I didn't think I'd ever do. I hadn't painted animals before. Spending time with such a lovely bunch of people after the isolation of COVID was a real treat. In a year with lots of challenges and difficulty it was an absolute highlight”.
Pumpkin by Angela
“I tried to capture in my work his essence, embodied by the look in his eye. We have a deep non-verbal connection. He helps connect me to my animal self.
In the workshop I got the opportunity to talk about my relationship with Pumpkin with people who value animal-human bonds, and to immortalise my love for him in paint”.
Luna by Tricia
“Luna is young and playful and can be very silly. She looks so cute in her T-shirt. I’m hoping to have captured her gorgeous eyes and cheeky look. We have a close bond, and she likes to be near me or watching me most of the time. She is easy to train and plays with toys, runs very fast then crashes for the rest of the day. To have her companionship is everything!
The workshop allowed me to be with other like-minded people who cherish their pets and enjoy talking about them! Such indulgence talking about and painting my dog. I learned skills too... I have never painted a portrait and never painted on canvas. Talking in the interview was interesting too”.
Jonas by Janice
“I hoped to capture Jonas’ look of unconditional love as he sits beside me in the car. Jonas is my constant companion; he follows me everywhere! I love to hear the patter of his feet behind me and how he looks at me with such adoration. I take him with me in the car whenever I can, I would be lost without his company, and I think the feeling is mutual!
I felt the instruction at the workshop was great! I gained quite a few tips on actual painting technique and seeing the different ways that everyone else in the class approached the subject with their different colour choices and compositions was also very inspiring. It was a confidence boost for me and the incentive I need to pursue more painting as I realise how much I enjoy it! The time flew by!”
Scully by Jim
“I've tried to capture Scully's cuddly personality as well as her love and devotion to us. Scully is a loyal companion and friend.
I felt the workshop made me believe that I could actually DO it - paint a portrait of my pet. It gave me a great sense of achievement. Thank you”.
Rabbito Cardinale by Tash
“I would like to capture his attitude but also his soft nature and humour.
I love animals, i love art that includes animals, he is my fur baby family and he brings me joy ... so painting him is an extension of this joy and love for him”.
Jess by Wendy
“I would like to express the apparent love and trust Jess shows she has for us, her new carers. To create a keepsake of our time with Jess. Also to learn about the art process involved in creating this memory”.
Redford by Annette
“The handsome Redford is an expert at theft. He watches, waits, and then snitches what he wants. Lip balm ... hand creme ... bras. This artwork is an attempt at showing the contrast in his ‘oh so’ innocent looks and his ‘other’ side.
Redford has been an unexpected positive in my life. He is well known at the local market, he is tolerated by the 17 year-old geriatric dog and cat who both still consider themselves top dogs of the household, and he has become my best friend. I love him to bits.
I learnt so much in the workshop from not only the university presenters (who were all excellent) but also the other participants. It was a privilege to hear their stories, see their artwork, and where possible meet their pooches”.
Alex by Renate
“I have tried to capture Alex's calm presence. She was my greatest comfort during a challenging time in my life, amidst a worldwide pandemic. I hope my portrait highlights her loyalty, empathy, and golden glow. Alex has been the one constant in my life during challenging times. She can sense my mood and responds with comfort and care. People say she is my little shadow, standing beside me, providing safety and true friendship.
I found the workshop inspiring. It was not only an opportunity to tell mine and Alex's story but to connect with others around our shared pet experiences. We shared moments from our special relationship with our pets and the impact of the pandemic on our lives.
I learnt how to plan and begin a piece of artwork and have gone on to do several more art projects at home. I feel connected to life again and can see a better future”.
Basil by Cathy
“Basil was named after Basil Brush because of his slightly fluffy tail. Family calls him Basil B - Basil the Beautiful, Basil the Bouncy or, more commonly, Basil the Bastard. I wanted to capture his cuteness but also his devilry, even when sitting, there’s always a part of him (like his tongue) that can’t stay still. Basil and I bonded the moment we met at the pound. We’ve had to accommodate each other’s quirks for example, he loathes water and bikes, but I swim and cycle most days. I now drive rather than ride to the beach and reward him with a long coastal walk after my swim. They say understanding and compromise are key to a good relationship and that’s true even for humans and pets.
The last time I picked up a paintbrush was in early high school. I’d forgotten how much fun, absorbing, and satisfying it can be doing something creative even if you’re not good at it. It was also lovely connecting with other participants through our common love of our pets, hearing their stories and learning from them and the art team”.
Coco by Melanie
“In the portrait I tried to capture the Joie de Vivre of my little dog running along the beach. She is always happy to see me, likes to sit quietly, shares our bed. She loves children which is so important for our grandchildren.
The workshop was so fulfilling being taught by the wonderful art school teachers who are so knowledgeable and talented”.
Yuki by Bonnie
“I want to express her timid cuteness. I want to do something fun and creative with my friend."
Shimi by Tanya
“I have tried to capture Shimi’s serene, affectionate, and sometimes playful nature but also her aloofness and independence. Shimi engages with me in everything I do and this portrait captures her playfulness and engagement while we did a jigsaw puzzle together during lockdown. Shimi is a constant companion engaging with me through-out the day. Shimi is very chatty, a morning greeting, and reminders to have meals. While meditating she sits quietly nearby. Shimi reminds me to sit down during the day, and joins me leaning against me while I read, knit, sew or do puzzles.
From this workshop I have a portrait of Shimi, and met many beautiful people who were happy to share their images and stories about their pets. Through the helpfulness of all the UTAS staff I gained new skills and information about acrylic painting, which I was wanting to explore”.
Harry & Bingo by Judy
“Dogs spend a good bit of time waiting- for owners' return, for treats, for walks. But they're always hopeful and optimistic that something good will soon happen. In my painting, here they are patiently anticipating … In 50 years of marriage a dog has always been included as an integral member of our household. Since both daughters left home we have had two dogs, to replace the girls! We love our dogs, and they return that devotion.
This was an impressively run workshop, with engaging, skilled, and helpful tutors. It was great to make contact with so many other enthusiastic artist/dog lovers. The atmosphere was happy, relaxed, and instructive. I thoroughly enjoyed it”.
Tilly by Barbara
“Her unique personality 🙂 … My friend invited me [to the workshop]. We both have Jack Russells and enjoy creative pursuits.”
Paddy by Sally
“I tried to capture Paddy’s gentle and calming nature. Every Xmas I'd take a photo of her under the tree. She was loyal and funny. After a busy day at work, she was always happy and excited to see me. Seeing her running on the beach near home always made my heart fill with happiness.
At the workshop I got friendship and camaraderie from a group of like-minded people. I learnt a few tips about painting and was amazed at how talented everyone was. I was also pleasantly distracted from 'white noise' of the outside world”.
Fattypoombah by Jennifer
“I would like to capture her beautiful soulful eyes and wonky smile 😊 …I’ve always wanted to learn how to draw animals.”
Missy by Janelle
“I would like to capture the expression of a much loved pet who passed away 4 years ago from a photograph.
I currently work in water colours and enjoy the challenge of new mediums. Capturing the expressions of animals is a skill I’m am keen to develop."
Ellie by Fiona
“I would like to capture her cheeky character … [I also] love art and love my pet …"
Jetsam by Pete
“I would like to express her joy when swimming or chasing sticks on our local beach … I am participating in this workshop to share company with others and to have some creative fun together”.
Jack by Ruth
“He has a beautiful face with bright eyes. He is vibrant and can get very exited when he first meets someone. I love him. He is a great companion. He is very good with children and people”.
Sammy by Mary
“I would like to express how much I love Sammy, and how sweet it is to see her napping in the sun.
I participated in the workshop because I thought it would be a fun way of engaging with the community, and being creative & learning new skills with a group of people.”
Barney & Casper by Linda
“I have painted a double portrait of Barney and Casper to capture the special bond that they have together. Being little guys, they like their cosy blanket nests and stay pretty close to each other. Barney has a very outgoing personality while Casper is far more cautious and quiet.
I liked spending time with other like minded people who also have a special bond with their dog. I haven't done any painting for years and was keen to pick up a brush, refresh my skills and enjoy the process”.
Prince by Paul
“Prince was a mischievous and extremely energetic dog. I have tried to capture this mischief and energy in my painting. I grew up with Prince from an early age, from when I was about seven years old. He was my constant companion and a very good friend. We had a close bond, and he was like a furry brother to me.
Doing the workshop rekindled my love for art. I did art as a subject at school for several years but didn't do any more painting after this, until I participated in the workshop. I am now painting again on a regular basis and enjoying it immensely.”
Kobi by Celia
“Kobi is full of beans, and lives his life at 2 speeds, flat out and asleep. He has such a lovely smile and deep soulful eyes. I would like to capture his smile and eyes.
Kobi is an older dog and I really want to have something special to remember him by. I'm also reasonably new to the area and thought it would be a good opportunity to meet other like minded people.”
Drucilla by Zoe
“Drucilla has a big personality and she's very loving. She's very shy around other people so I'm the only one who gets to see this. She has a bit of a "mean face" in a lot of pictures, so I'd like to paint her in one of her happy looking moments.
I used to enjoy art a lot but have fallen out of practice. I'd like to get back into it and I think painting my cat is the perfect way to do it”.
Rosie by Anne
“ … the silly cuteness, the way her ears hang, the expectant expression. I would love to have the chance to learn a new skill, and express how much I love Rosie by doing a painting of her.”
Harry by Jo
“… the joy he brings to our family. His energetic and curious personality. He's only a puppy (5 months old).
I enjoy artwork and think that even if my painting isn't very good, I will still feel good during the painting process. I have a good friend attending the workshop with me and so it will be lovely to spend time with her on something that we both enjoy (art and pets).”
Jasper by Karyn
“I would like to express the strong sense of loyalty he has for my husband and me. His knowing brown eyes, that are ever observant and add to his anxiety when things are different to the norm. The grey on his muzzle that seems premature for his 5 years of age.
I have really enjoyed painting in the past and have recently cut my full-time working load in half and I am wanting to get back to things that I enjoy and things that make me happy”.
Milly by Britt
“ … her big brown eyes and her love for us … I am participating in this workshop to spend some time for myself doing something creative”.
Lucy by Libby
“Lou was such an intelligent dog who absolutely adored me, my daughter & some close friends. So special, she was such a joy to have in my family. She was so excitable, loyal, faithful & loving ... Lucy had to be euthanised due to liver cancer & old age, only a few weeks ago. So it would be great to have a drawing of her”.
Paul by Jess
“I would like to capture his personality … [and] to learn new skills and meet new people”.
Willis by Katrina
“… his love he had for his family. His good looks, the sparkle in his eye and smile. I am doing this workshop to learn to paint”.
Gloria by John
“… Her beautiful, loving, and caring personality … I've wanted to learn how to paint primarily so I can honour Gloria in paintings. I've been learning painting but still don't know how to paint her, so a workshop directly on this would be a great help thanks!"
Lola by Rachel
“I love painting and I love my pet.”
Charlie by Joanna
“I would like to capture my pet’s happiness and smile.
I would love to participate in this workshop because my dog is my baby and I absolutely adore him, we have such a special bond and we make each other happy! I would love to capture Charlie on canvas so I can have something that I created inspired by him. I am not the best at art but I have always loved being creative and learning”.
Casper by Joanne
“Casper has lots of love and a big personality.
I really enjoy creative activities but lack confidence so would appreciate support”.
Sam by Tania
“Sam is getting older and he is a beautiful soul. Would love a lasting memory of him.
I am participating in this workshop to extend my painting skills :)”
Winston by Kristi
“I would like to capture his cheeky fun loving nature. I haven’t done any art since high school it would be great to learn some new skills and have a chance to create a keepsake!”
Stanley by Lisa
“… devotion and partnership … Stanley arrived in my life when my relationship at the time was ending … He was by my side through 3 house movings in 12 months. He means the world to me and I often tell him ‘don’t get old Stanley’”.
Remy & Louis by Jennifer
“Twin white cats, soft fluffy cuddles, care … Creative connection with the community.”
Buddy by Allie
“In the portrait I tried to capture his crazy and fun personality. He's my best friend, I am extremely glad he is in my life otherwise I'd be talking to an imaginary friend!
I got so much out of the workshop! I went on to paint for other people and donated one of my paintings for auction to the Epilepsy foundation”.
Bella by Suzie
“Bella is mainly black so I would like to gain some expertise in capturing depth and colour variation. Schipperkes are like living with a Tassie Devil! She is 13 years old and now greying a little but still possesses her active, wilful, stubborn but loving nature. She loves beaches and swimming. Bella is a wonderful playmate with my active grandsons and a perfect introductory dog for toddlers regarding how to treat animals and keeping calm.
I have been too busy working over many years and I want to get back into some creative pursuits. Art helps me to not only forget about life’s challenges for a few hours, but also clears my mind so I can problem solve and make decisions about the future.
Bella was a major asset to my well-being during Covid!”
Ringo by Carolyn
“I would like to capture his sweet soul … and to try my hand at pet portraits."
Woolfgang Alexander Amadeus Rufus Shakas aka (Woolfie) by Shakas
“He is often a regal looking pooch and I would like to capture that in a portrait as well as his defining handsome looks.”
Bodie by Amanda
“ … his cheeky intelligence … I haven't tried this sort of painting since I was in primary school and would love to pick up some tips/techniques to hopefully use in the future as horses, dogs, and cats are always part of my family.”
Sasha by Meghan
“Her sweet, but sassy nature! I am participating in this workshop to gain experience painting and to try and capture my girl on canvas.”
Gabby by Bronwyn
“I have tried to capture the colours of Corgis, like the queen’s corgis, but with an Australian edge with the grey/ slight blue. My pet means to me, warmth and safety and someone who needs me, and I need them, purpose in life and protection.
Belief in myself is something I got out of the workshop and a love of acrylic painting”.
Buddy by Judi
“I used a warm undertone to express Buddy’s cheerful personality. His direct gaze demonstrates a keenness to participate and please. The beanie shows his patience. Buddy adds to the warmth of our home with his happy disposition.
At the workshop I appreciated the warm welcome and high level of tuition. I enjoyed the company of likeminded participants”.
Joc by Desma
“I tried to capture the patience in Joc’s expression, while I had been walking out into the agility course. He had embedded his paw prints deep into my heart and soul. Our relationship had been made deeper by the variety of activities that we had done together, both work and play. I love him with all my heart and miss him with all my soul.
The workshop was an opportunity to immerse myself with like-minded people and to try to push myself into a colour palette I would not normally use. I appreciated the guidance and support from the staff”.
Santi by Renusha
“Santi is nearly 2 and I would love to capture him at this age, his cheekiness, smile, playfulness, adventurous side … I really enjoy art and find it very therapeutic”.
Rex by Samantha
“… his smile … I’d love to learn to paint. I’m always looking for creative workshops to attend”.
Monty by Tina
“I would like to attempt to capture some expression in the eyes. Try hard with the shades of the hair so that it doesn't all look the same colour.
I enjoy participating in art activities, particularly with my friend Karyn!”
Ace by Emma
“I would like to capture his loving nature, love of people, cuddles and soft toys, his beautiful coat and hazel eyes (before he went blind) and his big boofy dome head.
I have been wanting to do an artwork of my boy for a while but just don’t make the time to do it. I’m hoping this workshop will help me to finally immortalise my furry child”.
Cilla Blak by Linda
“I painted Cilla Blak enjoying life. Outdoors, adventuring, waiting for me to catch up because we love each other. Woof, woof, woof - kiss, kiss kiss!
Cilla Blak is companionship, friendship, and fun. A reason to take a longer walk in the day and explore new stomping grounds. Cilla Blak is my coffee pal, at any cafe. There is a sense of completeness and satisfaction in caring for and looking after a best fur friend.
Surrounded by dog-lovers, enveloped in a friendly, encouraging, creative environment, were the perfect factors to feel capable of doing justice to my pet portrait. To paint Cilla Blak as I see hear and feel her. The opportunity to share a passion, express ideas and emote with others”.
Sunny by Lizzie
“I have captured the moment of pure bliss on Sunny’s face when she’s at the beach ... she’s so happy and carefree—look at that big smile and the sparkle in her eyes.
Sunny is very much a family member. She is my constant and always happy to see me with a big smile and a wag of the tail. Sunny reminds me of the simple things in life. She slows me down and reminds me to appreciate being in the moment. Sunny makes me feel loved.
I loved painting my pet and watching other people paint their special animals. I learned how to use colour by starting with a background that will come forward, some used blue, some purple, I used yellow. I also learned about painting shadows.
I enjoyed talking about my pet, a subject that gets overlooked but she’s such a huge part of my life”.
Sir Harry Hairy Pants by Sarah
“Harry is a very cheeky but loving little chap. He was playing in the bath when I took the original photo. My painting came out quite a bit different, but I still feel I’ve captured some of his cheeky personality.
Harry is my little mate, my best buddy, my shadow. He makes the world a better place for me.
It was so much fun to put everything out of my head and just paint for a day. I feel like I gained some confidence after not having picked up a paintbrush for about 30 years. I feel inspired. I even bought some new painting materials the other day!”
Scully by Julie
“I've tried to capture Scully's beautiful, sweet nature as well as her stunning good looks. Scully brings us so much joy every single day. She is very much our 'fur-baby'. She's sweet, cuddly, affectionate, cute and just downright adorable. We love her very much - and vice versa.
The workshop was brilliant. An absolute privilege to be able to attend a session where I could try my hand at something completely new. I was really thrilled with the results of my efforts, but I have to commend and thank our very talented tutors for assisting me so much in completing my piece. Thank you!”
Andi by Julia
“I tried to express Andi's cheerful personality in the portrait. I spent a lot of time at work, so when I come home, Andi is always so excited to see me. Andi loves going for walks. Whenever he sees me in running shoes, he spins around to show me his excitement.
Andi was my daughter’s Christmas present 6 years ago. I took over the responsibility of looking after Andi after my daughter moved to Melbourne last year. Andi means a lot to me. If I can pick a superpower, I will always say I wish I can have a conversation with Andi.
This workshop was very well organised. Not only did I have a great opportunity to learn some painting skills and tips from some professionals, but also, I developed a deeper understanding of the important role our pet is playing in our life. We shouldn’t take anything for granted”.
Baily by Jan
“I was trying to show Bailey as the passive and obedient dog he generally is. He will eyeball treats until they are his! He is a much-loved family member, and he fulfils his voluntary role alongside me as a Story Dog by listening to young children read to him whilst they pat or cuddle him. He doesn't have an aggressive bone in his body, and his calmness rubs off on others. He is part of the family. If a family member is away, he is often out of sorts; he misses them. When they reappear, he is a very vocal, happy dog. He is our reminder to stay active, walking every single day. He huffs and puffs and sulks if we leave the walk until later in the day. He loves being part of the Story Dogs program, willingly powdered and brushed before his working coat goes on. Then of course, he loves the treats the children give him in exchange for a trick or two. I can't put into words how much all of our senses and emotions are enriched by having a loving dog in the family.
I loved the workshop. It was a really enjoyable way to share a day with other people who also loved their pets and wanted to have a go at painting. It renewed my interest in art and got me to get over the challenge of actually painting something! In the past I have dabbled in other means of artistic expression but never painting. So on the day, I picked up some tips and skills which I can now apply when I start my next creation!”
Oral B by Mia
“She is very confident and outgoing cat. So, I painted the background orange and yellow to show her personality and with a spiral touch to make it looks like a sunny day which means she will be allowed to go out. She is also a happy cat which sometimes means she is very cheeky. This is her iconic face when she’s annoyed. It feels meant to be for us when we see her. Her positive attitude, happy and outgoing personality bring us joy and teach us by sharing caring and love. We both are learning and growing together since we met.
This workshop was amazing. I have learned from nothing to something. This is my first try and it come out fine to me! All the people were so patient and willing to share their love and story of their pet. It is so lucky to be part of it and able to see those gorgeous works which done by the artists!”
Big Mack by Kay
“In my portrait I have tried to capture Mack's happiness. Mack is always up for a walk or run on the beach, he loves to swim and chase the ball. He's not interested in anyone or anything else—he just wants to swim and run. People have told me that he is actually smiling—and this is true as all the photos I have of him look just like this - happy!
Mack has made a big difference to my life. I rescued him 2 & 1/2 years ago when he was 3. All my kids had left home, and it was the first time in my whole life that I had lived alone. Mack filled a great gap. I don't really know who is luckier—him or me. He's made me get out and walk around my neighbourhood. He drives me to walk on the beach, which is a great form of meditation and calmness for me. And I have met a whole new group of 'doggie' people who are out walking neighbourhoods and beaches with their furry mates. He's just the best mate I could have hoped for.
I enjoyed the workshop because it made me do something entirely for me. I have a busy life where I teach and work making things and time for other people, whereas this was just purely for me. I spent the whole workshop trying to capture Mack's nature and personality in the portrait. I don't think it's quite finished yet, but I do think it has good bones and can be worked a little further to portray Mack's infectious happiness. Thank you”.
Jeannie by Maria
“I would like to capture her lovely nature”.
Rupert by Ruth
“I tried to capture Rupert’s alert pose on hearing our daughter (his owner) arrive. We look after Rupert during the working day, and he is a loyal companion.
This was my first time using acrylic paint and I also learnt a strategy for copying in the image before painting plus collegiality with others and their pets and learning to paint. Great sympathetic teaching”.
Archibald by Zara
“… his big grumpy face … my friends Jess and Ren are participating, we all love our animals and would like to try to capture them other than in photographs”.
Lily by Lisa
“I tried to capture a little girl in a big space. The beach is where she is her happiest. She and her shadow own the space in this painting. Her head is thrown back as if she is laughing. It is a joyful image.
Lily is a beautiful little girl. We spend most of our days together. She follows me and I talk to her, and together we get "stuff done". Plenty of cuddles. A funny, happy relationship with lots of love.
At the workshop I got to meet new people who shared the joy of having pets during the Covid-19 lock down. Learning to paint for fun. Feeling accomplished, I'm really happy with the result”.
Flynn by Kay
“Flynn is a young dog, full of vigour and ready to take on the world. A ruffian, a doggy dog. I wanted to capture the scruffiness and the sense of coiled energy, ready to launch into the next encounter.
Flynn is my constant companion. He arrived just before lockdown 2020, giving me a focus, a sense of security and relieving isolation and loneliness. The daily dog walks were important social contacts, strangers can’t resist a cute puppy, conversations happened.
In the workshop I learned new techniques of building up colour and textures using various mediums. It was a supportive environment with a sense of fun. The interviews allowed thoughtful reflection of raising a pet, building a relationship with an animal over the COVID year”.
Archie by Jane
“… his face and grin … I have never attempted to paint anything in my life so would like to learn and at least make an attempt. My big hairy groodle will definitely be a challenge!”
Mollie by Charles
“I tried to capture her …
Mollie is a bit of a star, who’s wilful, always enjoyable and who began life as another Blue Roan when I was a small child and has now popped up in our family now that we are both adults which is a bit special!
I got from the workshop a range of classmates who are in touch with and in love their dogs, and who created portraits that we could relate to! I feel that I participated in a pretty special project involving the community and university staff - fun, fun, fun!”
Fergie by Francis
“I would like to capture her personality, her untidy haircut and the way she communicates with me by staring into my eyes”.
Finn by Lindsay
“I would like to capture His loving and gentle nature and happy go lucky mischievous personality”.
Alphie by Bronwyn
“Walks along beach … I am participating in this workshop to learn to paint! And interact with others.”
