By Chelsea Reed
Ask yourself what famous artwork first comes to mind, and Vincent Van Gogh's Starry Night, the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, or a historical engraving by Albrecht Durer might surface. What makes art stand out like that? Perhaps it’s because of its strong emotional impact or historical significance. Artwork that celebrates animals carries its own significance and charm. What qualities make animal art famous? Here’s what we think sets art about animal life apart from the rest.
Who doesn’t love a great animal story? If you’ve ever seen a classic Don Bluth or Disney film, you know what we’re talking about. Animal art that tells a memorable story is highly prized. New Spring Lamb by Denise Horne-Kaplan is a gorgeous watercolor that celebrates life on the American farm in the rugged frontier. I’m Your Prince by Debra Kierce is a hilarious piece that encapsulates the classic “Frog Prince” fairy tale. We love the fact that it’s an oil painting on copper. Sometimes the most valuable things you’re searching for are hidden.
Animals can certainly think and feel as independent living creatures. Unfortunately, they aren’t able to use words or communicate with humans like humans can. Tragedy often happens as a result. The good news is, we can be their voice. One artist is using her talents for just that. We Are Not Transparent by Liat Polotsky is an oil painting inspired by seeing a fish with plastic inside it on a Mediterranean trip. The sea creatures can’t speak, but her art can. You can see the determination on the animal’s face in the water.
Sometimes animals represent important symbolism. Liberation by Lynne Kibbe, Scratchboard is a unique scratchboard featuring a stunning black swan with jewel-like plumage. A “black swan” is a rare unpredictable event with powerful and historical consequences. The rise of the internet, tearing down the Berlin Wall, and the COVID-19 pandemic are all examples of black swans. The name of the piece and its dark beauty seem to resonate with this theme along with the perseverance to endure such events.
Art does more than express the human condition. It expresses animals, too! We love it when we see compelling original art without a single human in sight (no offense, humans, we love you too). Hound Energy by Judy Lalingo is an amazing oil on canvas that communicates the moment hound dogs live for. Its face tenses up with laser focus, ready to sprint on command. Dogs’ exceptional sense of smell is up to 100,000 times better than humans, making them hunting and tracking experts. Some have even sniffed out bombs, cancer in hospital patients, and lost people. Good dog!
Every hard-working canine appreciates a vacation. Nights in Rodanthe by Kim Gerber is a fun acrylic painting that celebrates multiple breeds hanging out at the beach next to the iconic house that was filmed for the movie with the house’s namesake. How many breeds can you spot?
Seaside Art Gallery’s Animals in Art Show gives animals the spotlight they deserve. Browse through gorgeous original animal art to take home right here. A portion of each piece in the Show is donated locally to help pets and their owners in need. Be the star in an animal’s life today.
Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes winning content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina. She might not be building sandcastles or swashbuckling with pirates these days, but the Outer Banks beaches continue to keep her young at heart.
Today’s technology-driven world often feels like a roller coaster. Thankfully, there is plenty of opportunity still when we can hit the pause button. This little collection of gorgeous wildlife art brings a refreshing take on the typical “slice of life” art genre.
Since ancient times the presence of animals has helped us find hope, meaning, and good company. Domestic animals have been by our side as loyal companions for millennia.
Birds are like the jewels of the animal kingdom. These aerial marvels can sing, boast stunning colors, show off their remarkable precision in flight, and put an instant smile on a human’s face.
