A lifetime love for animals.

Art has a unique way of connecting us to the world around us, especially when it captures the spirit of nature. My work stands out because it brings animals to life on canvas, inviting viewers to see them not just as subjects but as personalities with stories. This post explores the animals that inspire my art, revealing how my connection with them shapes my creative process and the emotions my pieces evoke.

My art is more than just beautiful images of animals. It reflects a deep respect and understanding of the creatures I paint. My work captures the essence of animals, from their expressions to their movements, making each piece feel alive and personal.

I spends time observing animals in their natural habitats or through close encounters. This hands-on approach allows her to notice details that many might miss: the subtle tilt of a head, the glint in an eye, or the texture of fur and feathers. These details become the foundation of my art.

My goal is to create a connection between the viewer and the animal. When you look at my paintings, you don’t just see an animal; you feel its presence. This emotional link is what makes my art memorable and powerful.

Horses are a huge part of my art as they are my most beloved animal. Ever since I was a small child I was in love with horses. My bike was a horse named Shambalah that had a stall in the garage. I cut paper horses out of magazines and kept them in a cigar box just like Velvet Brown did in National Velvet. I had every Breyer horse statue ever molded and my friend Michelle and I would gallop around the back yard leaping over the picnic table and benches strewn about the yard, our top half being the rider and bottom half the horse. My horse paintings convey the deep sense of connection I feel between human and animal, reflecting the bond many people share with these

How to Connect with Animals Like Shannon Does

You don’t have to be an artist to appreciate or connect with animals in a deeper way. My approach offers some simple steps anyone can try:

• Spend time observing animals in nature or at a sanctuary. Notice their behavior and expressions.

  
  

• Take photos or make quick sketches to capture moments that stand out.

  
  

• Learn about the animal’s habits and environment to understand its story.

  
  

• Reflect on what the animal’s presence means to you personally.