Carol Lew

About the Artist

Carol Lew Art: I live with my husband in an early 19th-century farmhouse in the rural Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts, along with our two cats and our old dog, Mr. Marley. At any given time, we might also have a variety of foster cats, kittens, or dogs from our local animal shelter.

I studied painting at the Philadelphia College of Art and have had an interest in painting for most of my life. For the past fifteen years, my artwork has been inspired by a love of animals, country life, and history. I like to paint subjects with simplicity, directness, and a touch of whimsy. Oils are my medium of choice because of their warmth and richness.

My portraits- dogs and cats exquisitely dressed and proudly posed in historically classic style- are as much about human nature as they are about animals. I think my portraits elevate the station of our animal friends and at the same time, poke a little fun at the self importance we human beings feel.

Most of my time is spent painting commissioned portraits, a process that both I and my clients enjoy immensely. Together we brainstorm ideas, and then using historical references and pet photos, we create waggish masterpieces that have personal meaning and bring smiles to peoples' faces.

My artwork has been published by "Art In Motion", an international art publishing and licensing company in British Columbia. My paintings have been exhibited around the country in galleries and art museums.

Commission Information
If you have a pet that you adore, and perhaps a bit of a silly side, then this kind of portrait might be just the thing for you! For many, a commissioned portrait has been a fun way to indulge their love for a pet, add a bit of "formal whimsy" to their decor, or give a delightful gift to an animal lover. For Carol Lew, one of the most enjoyable aspects of working on commissions is the chance to brainstorm with pet owners about themes, costume ideas, favorite toys, and symbols that best capture the unique qualities of their pet.