Back in June of this year, my custom pet portrait paintings were featured on the popular Moderncat website. The feature generated considerable interest in my portraits. One inquiry from the feature really touched my heart.
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“My amazing cat Juniper was hit by a car and died last week. She was the cutest cat I’ve ever seen and she was my close friend. I’m pretty devastated by the loss and was thinking that one of your paintings would be a nice way to memorialize her.”
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The words in the email brought me to tears. The beautiful tuxedo cat Juniper reminded me of my Beezie, and the writer’s feelings of loss reminded me of how I felt when I lost my best friend ever.
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Losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest things a pet lover can face. We attach to animals in a uniquely pure and unguarded way, and losing them is like losing the best parts of ourselves.
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I know for me, having paintings around that I had created of Beezie was very healing after her loss. When I paint portraits for others after their pets have gone, I feel honored to be a part of the healing process for them.
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A BZTAT portrait is not just a painting of an animal. It is a portrait about the relationship that exists between the animal and the human that loves it. In the case of Juniper, it was a very special relationship that was interrupted too soon. She was only 4 years old when she left this world.
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Her human liked to garden, and Juniper liked to follow her around the yard, keeping her company. She wore a red collar with a fish shaped tag that had her name. She had many admirers in her neighborhood, but she knew where she was most loved.
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I never met this sweet cat, but I felt as though her spirit was with me as I painted her. I thank her for that, because she guided me in painting something very special for her human.
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Until we all meet at the Rainbow Bridge someday, may you be at peace dear Juniper. And may your human find solace in remembering you fondly through your portrait.
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**Special on Custom Pet Portrait paintings! 10% off the regular cost of Pop Art Style Portraits ordered by 12/7/12.** Shipping costs still apply. Portraits cannot be completed in time for Christmas, but gift certificates can be provided to be given as gifts. Orders bust be paid in advance. Contact BZTAT to order yours!
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