Steve Bartolomei: Ladybug

A fine portrait of Ladybug, the beloved pug of the artist.  The pug in question is expressive, her gaze fixed on the viewer in the manner only pugs can achieve.  Every bit of the subject is rendered with a warm, inviting expression, contrasted with the cool tones behind her, only to be energized by strokes matching the intense color of the eyes.  To great effect, the artist has used the medium of oil to create a sense of simplicity and texture.  The brushstrokes hybridize pointillism and impressionism, giving the piece a geode-like quality.  Created November 2, 2020.

 

Dante: Wolf

A free-hand impression of Shirookami, the white wolf.  Drawn in a few minutes, strokes of ink were digitized to create a figure in vectorized ink.  Lacking conventional structure that underlies many hand-drawings, the lines rise up as if the wolf is embalmed in divine flame.  Its gaze exudes  a majestic, otherworldly power.  Created May 1, 2021.

 

Alexandra Plemmons: Portrait of Ellie

A collaged portrait of Ellie.  Showcasing the artist's signature style, this work combines pages from vintage books to create a 2.5-dimensional visage. The high contrast of this monochromatic piece make it an immediately recognizable likeness of the chihuahua in question.  The portrait fits well with the author's collection of wholesome handmade greeting cards and stationary.   Created August 28, 2023.