San Diego artist Sinclair Stratton loves dogs and all other animals as much as she loves color.
The colors come to me from the energy that I feel emitting from the animals that I paint, she says. Oftentimes, I have no idea where the colors will go, and I just have to trust myself that it will turn out well.
Stratton has made a name for herself in the relatively small and competitive world of animal portraiture. Her original watercolors command $10,000 and up, and owners interested in having Stratton capture their pets in repose pay upwards of $5,000.
As Strattons fees have increased, so has her commitment to animal welfare organizations. She regularly donates artwork and money to her favorite charities. Its the least I can do, she says. There are so many people doing wonderful work for animals and if I can help through my art, then it is truly a dream come true.
Posted: May 4, 2006, 5 a.m. EST