Karie-Ann Cooper is a part time pet portrait and wildlife artist as well as a full time civil servant. She is a self-taught artist with a love for animals and all things creative. She enjoys being able to bring photographs to life and creating tributes to beloved pets. Samples of her work can be viewed on her website.
How did you become interested in this field?
I have also loved animals and art. As a child I was always doodling and scribbling or playing with guinea pigs and rabbits. As I’ve grown older the two things have become intertwined to become a part time business which will hopefully grow to a full time business, resulting in a career I truly love.
What is your educational background?
I have very limited formal education in the way of art. I have qualifications in art, design and technology but I have found real life has been my biggest educator. My love of animals has made me realize that their personalities shine through in a pet portrait and I endeavor to capture this in every painting. I think anyone and everyone can become an artist regardless of qualifications, it’s the effort and skill you put into your art that counts.
What is an average day at work like for you?
I work full time as a civil servant and spend my evenings and weekends working on my website and art. I do receive more pet portraits than wildlife art commissions, and Christmas is exceptionally busy.
What do you like most about your job?
The best part of being a pet portrait artist is being able to produce a lifelong reminder of a beloved animal or to bring back memories of happy times when the client gazes at one of my paintings
What advice do you have for others who are interested in pursuing a career in this profession?
Don’t give up. I am far from where I would like to be but I am not giving up.
Get started by earning an Art Degree.
