ALISON KOLESAR
Alison Kolesar is a freelance illustrator based in Williamstown, Massachusetts, who specializes in pet portraits.
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CREATIVE STATEMENT
I grew up with cats and dogs so a sleeping animal was usually available to sketch and something I drew often. I love how expressive they are - dogs in their faces, cats more with their bodies. In order to capture a likeness I’ll start with photographs, but then make sure to include that twinkle in the eye, hint of a smile, or head to one side that shows the animal’s personality. I like to include decorative backgrounds, but can of course also focus just on the portrait.
RECENT CLIENTS
- Galison Puzzles
- TJ Maxx
- various private commissions
Q&A
What is your favorite pet portrait?
The painting of the tabby on a flowered blanket is a portrait of my own cat, Jasper, and therefore a personal favorite.
Which attribute is most important to capture in a pet portrait?
The most important feature to capture are the eyes, though with dogs their mouths can also be very expressive. Cats can seem inscrutable, but that’s also part of their charm.
What is special about your creative approach?
I like to paint pet portraits in a setting that reflects the pet’s story. For example I painted one dog on a throne-like chair because in her household she was a little princess!