Please say hello to our newest sponser here at Better After, the lovely and oh-so-talented
Karen Hetzer!
Karen is an artist based in Lake Worth, FL. When she isn’t busy painting a commissioned mural somewhere, she enjoys focusing her craft on unsuspecting pieces of furniture to fantas-tify. (made up word)
I. LOVE. THIS!
And THIS!
Simply amazing work! Karen began painting fifteen years ago. She is completely self-taught, teaching herself by studying her favorite painters, impressionists, which is evident in her style today.
Her handiwork has been the focal point in restaurants, schools, The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and hundreds of private homes.
She’s the real deal. Not to knock the local mural painters around here, but there is this most horrifying mural in a school nearby of what I think is supposed to be a pack of wolves? And they look like rabid housecats. That got backed over by a truck. And the artists kind of gave up by the time they got to the back legs and there are only a bunch of gray blobs back there.
Anyway, Karen would be having none of that. Her work is so realistic it looks … well, real! I stared at this mural for a while because it really looks like Matthew could bonk his head on that red shutter if he sat up too fast.
See that loooong lovely mural going on back there? That would be Karen’s work, featured in Florida Design magazine.
You can see more from Karen by
Visiting her on her blog
Checking out her portfolio
Shopping around her etsy
Or just stopping in to say hi at her studio/shop on 205 N Federal Hwy, Lake Worth, FL
*******
***GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED****
But wait! We haven’t even mentioned one of her favorite projects: Pet Portraits!
She says, “In the past fifteen years taking on every opportunity to paint, I’ve painted murals for multimillion dollar mansions and I’ve painted urinals in restaurant bathrooms. My favorite though has to be painting these fun, mini pet portraits. When I’m painting them I can’t help but feel the love the owners have for their pets. Studying the faces of the pets over and over again while painting them, you can’t help but feel you know them personally, there’s a connection……its a great feeling.”
And, get this folks: Karen has offered to paint a free custom pet portrait for one Better After reader! Hoo boy!
Ack, look how cute they are!
If I could win, I would probably have Karen paint a portrait of my dad’s dog Rusty. Rusty is an airdale just like one above, but that one is a little too cheerful to pass. Rusty would be more like warily glaring at you while somehow being bored at the same time. And he has a scar because he likes to fight and he has a missing a tooth because he’s kind of a hillbilly.
Here’s an example below. Karen used the picture on the left for the portrait on the right and she says she can easily change out the background scene to whatever you prefer, just like she did here. You can also find more info on her pet portaits HERE.
I’m so excited, I really think this is such a neat giveaway!
To enter once: Simply leave a comment here. It’s not necessary, but I want to know about the pet you’d choose to have painted!
To enter twice: Visit Karen’s blog and become a follower! (come back and leave another comment letting me know, pretty please)
To enter thrice: Blog or facebook or tweet or whathaveyou and tell your pet-loving friends about the giveaway too! (don’t forget to come back and tell me)
And please don’t forget to leave your email or a way to contact you. Winner will be chosen Monday morning-ish. Have a great weekend!
217 Comments
blabbing maggie
January 8, 2011 at 3:54 AMThose are so great! I have my fingers crossed! If I win, I’d have my boyfriends boxer, dakota, done. She is very much a part of our family, and he’d love it!
Kimberly
January 7, 2011 at 10:48 PMWow! Karen’s art is amazing! I would love to win this to present as a gift to my hubby. I’d ask her to paint his yellow lab-chow mix, “Toby”. Toby’s getting up there in years and we will be devastated when he passes. This would be a great way to memorialize him!
k_estrella81@yahoo.com
paige.stephens
January 7, 2011 at 10:53 PMI love all of her work, it’s amazing! I would ask her to paint a picture of my yorkie Luke 🙂
Jennifer @lifecraftsandwhatever
January 7, 2011 at 10:53 PMThose are amazing! I would have a picture of my miniature dachshund, Jasper, painted. He’s 8 years old, and I bought him when he was 6 weeks old when I was stationed in Japan. He has a tumor on the underside of his spine, which fractured his vertebra. So we manage it with pain meds, and when those stop working we’ll have to put him down.
Jennifer @lifecraftsandwhatever
January 7, 2011 at 10:53 PMThose are amazing! I would have a picture of my miniature dachshund, Jasper, painted. He’s 8 years old, and I bought him when he was 6 weeks old when I was stationed in Japan. He has a tumor on the underside of his spine, which fractured his vertebra. So we manage it with pain meds, and when those stop working we’ll have to put him down.
Jennifer @lifecraftsandwhatever
January 7, 2011 at 10:53 PMThose are amazing! I would have a picture of my miniature dachshund, Jasper, painted. He’s 8 years old, and I bought him when he was 6 weeks old when I was stationed in Japan. He has a tumor on the underside of his spine, which fractured his vertebra. So we manage it with pain meds, and when those stop working we’ll have to put him down.
Kelli
January 7, 2011 at 10:54 PMKaren’s work is fabulous, what amazing talent she has. If I won I would have her paint “The Boys”…my fury babies Gustopher (Golden Retreiver) & Winston (Corgi). They are the center of our world and live the best life I think any pet could. Would love to have that spoiled sweet dog life portrayed in a portrait.
klucey@ymail.com
Kari ---
January 7, 2011 at 10:55 PMAwww, wow, what beautiful artwork… seriously. I love love love the chest with the boat scene on it.. just stunning!
If I had the chance to get a pet portrait, it would be of my childhood dog.. and English Springer named Rusty. She was just awesome, and had to be put down due to old age in 1998, just after I moved out and got married. My mom and I still get choked up when we talk about her.
Kari ---
January 7, 2011 at 10:56 PMOh, and I’m following Karen’s blog, too 🙂
paige.stephens
January 7, 2011 at 10:56 PMI am a follower of Karen’s blog!
—Paige.stephens@53.com
Artichoke Alley
January 7, 2011 at 10:56 PMAmazing!!! I, like you, had to look hard at a few of those to make sure they weren’t going to move! Anyway, I would love for her to paint my children’s dogs, Rosie & Dixie. They were each given to them as pups and are German Short-haired Pointers.
walkintheclark
January 7, 2011 at 11:03 PMshe is AWESOME! i always wanted to be an artist.. but i just don’t have the patience! if i won this, i would have her paint my puppy, Leonidas. He’s a pitbull/lab mix.. he loves to chew on anything and everything but he is so loving! i’m pregnant, and i swear he can tell because he follows me EVERYWHERE! i can’t leave a room without him right on my heels. i love him to bits! also, i LOVE your blog! i’m completely obsessed. 🙂
kelly
January 7, 2011 at 11:06 PMBeautiful. I especially love the mural in the circular staircase.
If I win, I would have to immortalize our pet cat Tachi. He’s an amazingly smart cat – he knows how to open doors, collect phone messages, shake hands and high-five, and many other things. Lately he’s been eyeing the can opener. Heaven help us if he learns how to run that on his own, because then he won’t need us around any more.
walkintheclark
January 7, 2011 at 11:10 PMalso —- i’m a follower of karen!
meeshlax@hotmail.com
Michelle L.
January 7, 2011 at 11:15 PMWow. The work is amazing! The giveaway is so generous! I would loooove to win, I would have to really think hard because there are so many wonderful pets in my life. Thanks to you both!
Bethany
January 7, 2011 at 11:18 PMI would have her paint a portrait of my cat Otis! I have the perfect photo for her to use!!
Mrs BC
January 7, 2011 at 11:23 PMWow, Karen’s painted furniture is very inspiring! What a gifted artist.
I would love a portrait of our golden lab, Happy Dog, who is 14 & arthritic, & I fear, not long for this world 🙁
Can you include grief counselling with the giveaway? Cause this family will need it.
Mrs BC
xx
Sandy
January 7, 2011 at 11:23 PMI would love to have our 14-year old peke painted, and I would give it to my daughter.
CountryBelle
January 7, 2011 at 11:25 PMWhat awesome work!
I would get my little girl Lucy done. She was 12 this Christmas and I would love to have something like this done so I’ll have her forever 😉
Angie
January 7, 2011 at 11:34 PMWow! She is a good artist!
I would want her to paint a picture of my dog Scamp. He lived to be the ripe old age of 14, and he was definitely a member of the family! 🙂
I also love to read your blog! So many fun ideas!!
crazydaisies28@gmail.com
Angie
January 7, 2011 at 11:38 PMI also became a follower of Karen’s blog.
Andrea
January 7, 2011 at 11:41 PMAs soon as I saw this, I knew the picture I’d submit if I was chosen… My parents had 2 jack russell terriers… Barnum & Bailey. Bailey will turn 4 next month. Barnum passed away in September after struggling with Adrenal Insufficiency for a year and a half. I don’t see my dad cry often, but I saw him cry after losing his sweet Barnum. We have a beautiful picture of Barnum that would look wonderful turned into a piece of artwork… and I’m sure it would make my dad tear up again.
clark6703 at earthlink dot net
Andrea
January 7, 2011 at 11:44 PMI’m following Karen’s blog!
clark6703 at earthlink dot net
Angie
January 7, 2011 at 11:48 PMI also shared the link on facebook.
manda
January 8, 2011 at 12:06 AMAmazing work! She would have a hay day painting a pic of our basset hound, Lola!!!
Sally Lou
January 8, 2011 at 12:15 AMwhat a fun giveaway!
if I won, I’d have her paint a picture of our dog, Monkey.
The Polka Dot Closet
January 8, 2011 at 12:16 AMThat is an artist, a God given talent! I would love to win!
Carol
Schaughn
January 8, 2011 at 12:19 AMThat work is just amazing! I loved the staircase art, and the sea scape chest would fit very nicely into my home.
I am not sure which pet I would have done. I have a loving and evil calico cat named Tokyo. However, I’m just about to adopt a rescue/ abandoned kitten who is likely to be named Cairo.
Also for consideration is my Pomeranian Nikki that was attacked in my front yard and killed by pitbulls this spring. I miss her every day. She was a rescue too, and the sweetest hearted dog that survived a previously abusive life.
Ryan
January 8, 2011 at 12:23 AMEEEK! I have 2 Westies just like the sample you posted. They NEED their portrait painted!
Gillian
January 8, 2011 at 12:27 AMWow – what talent! I totally thought the tiny sundress on one of her repainted dressers was real.
I would love to have her paint a portrait of my husband’s cherished cat, Kitty Girl. She has kidney failure and is deteriorating pretty quickly. A painting would allow him to have a keepsake of her forever, even after she is no longer with us. With his birthday coming up it would be a terrific gift.
Stacy
January 8, 2011 at 12:29 AMJust found your blog, through another blog, that I clicked on from another blog…I love it! What an amazing artist you are featuring. I would have her paint my baby Kioko. She is a lab mix runt the we brought home 3 years ago and she is my heart!
Teri
January 8, 2011 at 12:49 AMI would love to have a picture painted of my dil’s cat: Lucifer, (Lucy, for short) for her. She would love it!
Thanks for the giveaway! And thanks for the intro to such a talented artist.
Stormy
January 8, 2011 at 12:51 AMwow. What great work and what an awesome prize! I’d have my baby girl Laney’s portrait painted. She is a 7 yr old mixed breed I adopted from the animal shelter when she was 6 wks old, she was the only puppy from her litter of 9 that survived. She is my best friend.
stormyranew@yahoo.com
Dawn
January 8, 2011 at 12:55 AMVery cool contest – I would love to win, but would have an impossibly hard time choosing between my puppy or my hubby’s cat. I am going to save up to buy one indeed!
Dawn
January 8, 2011 at 12:56 AMOh, and I just became a follower of Ms. Hetzers, she does absolutely amazing work, and being self taught – what an inspiration!
Chandra Chinnis
January 8, 2011 at 1:06 AMHer work is beautiful. I had to look 3 times to realize the dressers were dressers. I would have her paint my dog Princess who is a Maltese ShiTzu mix.
Erin @ The Impatient Gardener
January 8, 2011 at 1:18 AMThe dresser with the dress “hanging” on it is amazing.
I’d never be able to pick between my two Newfoundlands, so Hudson and Rita would have to share the painting!
Teri
January 8, 2011 at 1:19 AMWhat a wonderfully talented artist she is! If I won, I would have her do a portrait of my sister’s great dane. Maggie passed away not quite a year ago and is still sorely missed.
Smiley
January 8, 2011 at 1:20 AMI would love to win and have such an amazing artist paint a picture of my furry baby, Maddy! <3 I love her!
Paula 🙂
Sue@Uniquely Chic
January 8, 2011 at 1:20 AMI have always been a fan of Karen. She used to post her stuff on muralsplus.com and I always was so blown away by her talent. When I saw her name on this post I instantly remembered her amazing art and how I wished I could paint like her. I would so love to win this and have a portrait done of my “dirty beast”, Snickers. A Westie w/ lots of attitude that I have a love/hate relationship with. Don’t ask just trust me on this
Teri
January 8, 2011 at 1:22 AMWhat a nice blog site she has. I’ve become a follower and look forward to seeing her work!
Monica
January 8, 2011 at 1:24 AMHer work is so incredible! I would probably have a portrait of our former rooster done. I called him “Ugly”, my husband (who got him) called him “handsome” and our four year old friend dubbed him “sweetie pie”.
Indiana Joan
January 8, 2011 at 1:33 AMSelf-taught and beautiful. Thank you for the chance to get this portrait done of my two rescued shelties, Shane and Calvin. It will look perfect hanging over my bed.
jaesi
January 8, 2011 at 1:33 AMThat is some seriously amazing talent!
I love the painted dressers! Usually they look tacky but these are breath taking!
Indiana Joan
January 8, 2011 at 1:37 AMI’m now following Karen’s blog. =)
Indiana Joan
January 8, 2011 at 1:39 AMMy Facebook friends will be stopping by too!!
Brandi
January 8, 2011 at 1:53 AMSuper cool! I would love to win a portrait of my kitty cat Harley.. she’s my spoiled baby 🙂 brandimthompson (a) gmail.com
Anne Reap
January 8, 2011 at 2:19 AMLovely!!! What a talent! My little Miss Magnolia the schnauzer/lab would be a wonderful subject!
Candace
January 8, 2011 at 2:22 AMAmazing! That is so incredible that she is self taught.
theparents
January 8, 2011 at 2:24 AMWe have a crazy Jack Russell Terrier (or Terror) that has the cutest face!
Anne Reap
January 8, 2011 at 2:24 AMJust visited Karen’s Blog and am now following her! Even if I don’t win, I have a feeling I’ll be commisioning a portrait!
Lucky Loves Home
January 8, 2011 at 2:29 AMShe is an amazing artist. I love her work and I’d love to have my little Lucky memorialized in one of her paintings. Lucky is my right hand gal. I’ll be joining Karen’s Blog as soon as I finish posting. Thanks.
Sandy
January 8, 2011 at 2:34 AMAmazing!! If I won I would have our little Jack painted–she has funny bowed legs and in some people’s eyes not the cutest, but to us she is the cutest and sweetest little dog anywhere!!
Barbara
January 8, 2011 at 2:35 AMI love the portraits! I would definitely have a portrait done of Lucy and Wiley my Australian Shepherds.
Cgal
January 8, 2011 at 2:57 AMI would without a doubt in my mind get a portrait painted of my lil shadow Chuey! I’ve had him since he was 4 months old…he is now 14. We survived a horrific accident that included 4 other vehicles with one being an 18 wheeler which we hit head on. All those that responded said it was a miracle that we both walked away without injuries. I just think he was/is my living guardian angel!!
Cgal
January 8, 2011 at 3:04 AMI am now an official follower of Karen’s blog. Now if I could just have her talent!!
Beth
January 8, 2011 at 3:08 AMWow, what a talent! Even if I don’t win, I’ve enjoyed seeing what she can do! But if I do win, I would have her paint my cat…I had to put her down last month after loving and living with her for 16 years. She is very missed, and a special portrait of her would be awesome.
Rita in Kansas
January 8, 2011 at 3:31 AMKaren your work is awesome, I just signed up to be a Follower and I`m not sure who I wanted you to paint for us if we should win, we have lost our dog and 2 cats recently but Seven our last girl is still with us .What eyecandy your paintings are.
Summer Lee
January 8, 2011 at 3:44 AMOh my!! she’s amazing!! My husband would squeal like a girl if I surprised him with a painting of our Yorkie, Bones!!!
Summer Lee
January 8, 2011 at 3:46 AMI’m following Karen’s blog!
Jemsmom
January 8, 2011 at 3:55 AMThat woman has some serious talent!!!! That is beyond amazing! If I were chosen (fingers and toes crossed!), I would have my baby’s picture done. Her name is Murphy and she is now 12 years old. I love that dog! She is and always will be my first baby!
Jemsmom
January 8, 2011 at 3:58 AMI just became a follower on Karen’s blog!
Jemsmom
January 8, 2011 at 4:00 AMJust posted on facebook about it!! Thanks Lindsey for such a great giveaway!
Never Enough Thyme Creations
January 8, 2011 at 4:01 AMI would love a pic of my Smudge!! My companion that got her name from her tail always wagging it’s way into wet paint!! She is getting old on me and I will miss her!
Never Enough Thyme Creations
January 8, 2011 at 4:02 AMI am a follower of your blog and Karen’s! I hope you will follow mine!
Amber
January 8, 2011 at 4:10 AMWow, what an amazing talent she has. I totally agree about bumping his head on the shutter, and I really had to study the dress hanging on the dresser, I totally thought it was real!
If I won, i think I would have a picture of my dad’s dog done, who recently passed away. She was a beautiful husky, and we all miss her, so it would make a wonderful girt for my dad.
CHERI
January 8, 2011 at 4:15 AMWow…her work is awesome and so life-like. If I won I would have her paint my grandchildren’s sweet dog Josie. I’m not a pet owner at this time.
Niki
January 8, 2011 at 4:16 AMNot sure if I would have one done of my dog, or my parents’ dog. They’ve gotten soft in their old age and I’m pretty sure that mut gets treated better than I did as a kid!
Lauren E
January 8, 2011 at 4:57 AMThose painting are unbelievable! All of them. Even the non-animal ones! If I won, I would have my rescue Bull Terrier, Tazz, painted. He had to have surgery yesterday and I was a mess for the entire day. It was only a dental and lumpectomy surgery, but I was still terrified that something would happen to my tough little man. We’ve had him for 2 years and I couldn’t imagine life without him.
blink_gurl123 (at) hotmail (dot) com
Lauren E
January 8, 2011 at 4:59 AMI’m a follower of Karen’s blog. I can’t believe how much detail she can fit into a 5″x7″ portrait.
Tasha
January 8, 2011 at 5:00 AMKaren’s work is amazing.If I won I would have my pug’s picture painted. Her name is Sadie.
Thank you for sharing this with us.
Tasha
momofsbandeg@yahoo.com
Brenda
January 8, 2011 at 5:01 AMKaren would do a beautiful job painting my husbands little buddy/mutt named Nimoy!
Lauren E
January 8, 2011 at 5:02 AMI tweeted: http://twitter.com/#!/LaurenEgier/status/23605297503272960
blink_gurl123 (at) hotmail (dot) com
Jessie McCandless
January 8, 2011 at 5:05 AMOh WOW!!! I’d have to think about who I’d pick. I’d love to have a portrait done of my horse that passed away, but if I’ve got a couple of very cute dogs I’d love a picture of, too 🙂
Jessie McCandless
January 8, 2011 at 5:08 AMOK, posted on Facebook! Also gave a shout out to your blog. I don’t comment very often, but I read every post! 🙂
Jessie McCandless
January 8, 2011 at 5:10 AMI’m now following Karen, too! What a talented artist!!
Charity
January 8, 2011 at 6:20 AMWhat a neat giveaway!! We miss our pet… would love to have a picture painted to remember him by. She is a talented artist!
Charity
January 8, 2011 at 6:20 AMI shared the link on Facebook!
Charity
January 8, 2011 at 6:22 AMI’m a follower on her blog! 🙂
K
January 8, 2011 at 6:29 AMWow, very cool! I would love a painting of my mini-dachshund girly!
Rebekah
January 8, 2011 at 6:29 AMThat is some great talent she has!
My sister has a rescued Papillon so that would be my choice if I won.
Sarah
January 8, 2011 at 7:11 AMWow, amazing! I love LOVE my dogs. I currently have two dachshunds that are about 4 years old. However I would have her paint my wonderful dog Oliver, who we lost a couple years ago. He was rescued from a puppy mill, but despite his rough start in life he was such a happy dog. So many good memories. Oh how I miss him.
What a great give away.
Thx Sarah
Jen&Joe
January 8, 2011 at 7:28 AMWhat a fun giveaway
Jen&Joe
January 8, 2011 at 7:28 AMWhat a fun giveaway
Jen&Joe
January 8, 2011 at 7:28 AMWhat a fun giveaway
Lindsey
January 8, 2011 at 10:14 AMThis comment has been removed by the author.
Vintage Style Downunder
January 8, 2011 at 10:19 AMWow..she’s AMAZING!! Those chests of drawers…simply fantastic! I’d LOVE to win a pet portrait! (is it open to international bloggers?)It’d be hard to pick tho..both our pets are now in pet heaven but Id love either of them to be remembered in an actual painting. Jyp was my husbands faithful hunting companion his entire life – he was 16 when he went to heaven…and Jypsy (no relation and my daughters spelling! ;))…was my daughters pet all her life till she left home and she became the family pet…who only a couple of months ago went to doggy heaven. She was 13.
so either would be fabulous, should I be lucky enough to win..thanks for the opportunity!
ciao
jessie nelson nz
Lindsey
January 8, 2011 at 10:19 AMOh My, these are gorgeous!! I would LOVE our dog Marley to have a portrait done! She’s a Rhodesian Ridgeback and is about to turn 2! She is literally a second child to my husband and I and she spends her time playing with my 4y.o. They are inseparable! Who would have thought an 80lb dog could take such good care of a small little boy. They are like peas in a pod! murrayclan3@yahoo.com
Kat from California
January 8, 2011 at 10:52 AMI’d have her paint my two cats that are such hams. My previous cat wouldn’t sit still for a photo and even though I had her 5 years I only have 2 pictures of her. Shasta and Pepsi pose (I know that sounds crazy) but they sit still and look at you when u point a camera at them. I have tons of great photos of them.
Katharine
Janvangogh
January 8, 2011 at 1:07 PMI dont have any pets. Karen is just a great muralist and painter. Whoever wins the portrait giveaway is going to be extremely happy with it. And if you dont win, her prices are very reasonable.
Erin
January 8, 2011 at 1:31 PMHer work is amazing! I would have her paint my 4 year old black lab.
Cheryl
January 8, 2011 at 3:04 PMBeautiful…I love the dresser with the little girls dress painted on it…I had to look twice! I would have a portrait of my black lab Jake painted. He is such a gentle and playful soul!
Chelsea
January 8, 2011 at 3:19 PMWould LOVE to win the pet portrait- i have a picture of my 3 bichons together that would be perfect!
Lisa
January 8, 2011 at 3:46 PMWow her work is amazing. I would love to have my 2 shihtzu’s portrait done.
tphilly
January 8, 2011 at 4:14 PMWowzers! Amazing work!
Alison
January 8, 2011 at 4:34 PMWhat a fun giveaway! I would love to have my little yorkie-poo painted. Her name is Sipsie and she’s a sweetie. But then, of course I would say that…
Silver Thistle
January 8, 2011 at 4:49 PMFantastic giveaway! Outstanding!
I’m a follower of Karen.. who isn’t?! Her stuff is gorge!
I’d have her paint my mum’s dog Sasha if I’m lucky enough to win. Sasha passed away just before Chritmas and is sorely missed by us all 🙁
Alane
January 8, 2011 at 6:13 PMWhat a fun giveaway! We have a chocolate lab named Rex. He is not only a great family dog but my hubbys retired and beloved hunting dog. It would be a great tribute.
danda@mvdsl.com
Jamie
January 8, 2011 at 6:41 PMI’d have her paint my lop earred bunny, Ramona.
Kelly and Gunner
January 8, 2011 at 8:54 PMAmazing! I would have a painting done of our black mini schnauzer Lucky! He was a rescue dog and deserves a painting of himself!
Kelly and Gunner
January 8, 2011 at 8:55 PMI am now following Karens Blog!
Gabi
January 8, 2011 at 8:59 PMKaren is a very talented woman, and I am to see that she is your new sponsor. These are great murals!! Just amazing, and she is self taught? Wowzas!! I love the pet portraits. Great, great, great!!!
-Gabi from Savannah, TX
Chelle
January 8, 2011 at 9:56 PMLove this giveaway! She really is a great painter, that dresser with the dress looked so real. I would love to have a picture of my little Regal Beagle Duece. Ever since my husband and I got him, we went from feeling like a couple to a family!
Chelle
January 8, 2011 at 9:57 PMOfficially following Karen’s blog! Still can’t get over her talent.
david and marci
January 8, 2011 at 10:15 PMHi-
What a great giveaway! She has an amazing talent! I would have her paint our dog Maggie. My husband and I adopted her shortly after we married. She has been in our family for many years now and she is wonderful to our two kids! We all love her dearly! Thanks-
Marci thepetersfamily3@aol.com
Lisa
January 8, 2011 at 10:26 PMWow! Love it. The dresser with the little dress is adorable. At first I thought it was rather plain until I realized the dress was painted on.
Aimee
January 8, 2011 at 11:47 PMWow! That is amazing! I am in awe of how real those look!
Aimee
January 8, 2011 at 11:50 PMI am now following Karen’s blog, and shared this giveaway on my Facebook page. Thank you!
Sarah
January 9, 2011 at 1:37 AMI would love to have a painting of our girl Lucy, a beautiful English Springer Spaniel. Her art is gorgeous!
Shana
January 9, 2011 at 1:58 AMAmazing art!! I would definitely have to have her paint a picture of my MIL’s dog Eddy that died a few years ago!! She loved him soooo much!
k
January 9, 2011 at 2:02 AMAMAZING works of art!!! Love them all, even the ones that are random “other people’s pets”! If picked I would choose our Jack Russell mutt. He is my 16 year old daughters whole world and she wonders what she would do at college without him… I would sent this with her to remind her of him! Thanks!
Rachael
January 9, 2011 at 2:29 AMThis comment has been removed by the author.
Rachael
January 9, 2011 at 2:32 AMOMG! These are so beautiful….If I won this portrait I would have it done for my dog Harley. He is a rescued golden retriever who is training to be a therapy dog. He is such and important part of our family and this would be such a treasured piece of art. 🙂
rgeorge21@gmail.com
Rachael
January 9, 2011 at 2:34 AMI just started following Karen’s blog…I look forward to watching the awesome murals. She is awesome!
rgeorge21@gmail.com
Popcorn Served Daily
January 9, 2011 at 2:49 AMCongratulations on your newest sponsor. She is
one talented woman!
Love the dog portrait giveaway as well. I’d have my
shihtzu “Oreo” painted.
Take care,
Lisa
lgylling@cox.net
Tamara
January 9, 2011 at 2:49 AMA portrait like this of our black lab Remington would really spruce up my husband’s office. How neat!
Johnna Jayne
January 9, 2011 at 2:54 AMLove this giveaway! I would have a portrait done of my sweet fur baby Skippy.
Ming
January 9, 2011 at 3:31 AMI’d love a portrait of our White German Shepard, faithful companion of 14 years, painted. We recently lost Reggie and this would be the perfect picture for my hubby, afterall, Reg was his best friend!
Marguerite
January 9, 2011 at 3:38 AMWhat a GREAT giveaway. I have two cats – both black, unrelated, rescue kitties and I would love a portrait of them. I had my first pets – two cats that were part of our family – for 19 years. A portrait is such a special way to honor that special relationship. I may have to get one done even if I don’t win!
Thanks. marguerito at comcast dot net
Marguerite
January 9, 2011 at 3:43 AMI’m one of Karen’s newest followers. I love her work, so congratulations on your newest sponsor and thanks for introducing her fabulous work to your readers. I think that is definitely what they call a WIN/WIN for everyone!
marguerito at comcast dot net
Mollie
January 9, 2011 at 4:22 AMI would love to have a pet portrait of my australian shepherd, Dinah. She is SO cute and the best dog ever!
Holly
January 9, 2011 at 4:56 AMI would choose my diabetic cat who is now 11 years old. It’s getting to the point where I don’t think he has much time left. This would be a great memory of him!
Holly
January 9, 2011 at 4:59 AMI became a follower of Karen’s blog
Holly
January 9, 2011 at 5:03 AMI tweeted
http://twitter.com/beachcovejewel
beach cove jewelry@ gmail dot com
Michelle
January 9, 2011 at 5:18 AMWhat an amazing, talented artist she is! I would LOVE a portrait of our family dog Remy. He passed away last Sept after nearly 8 years as a family member. We miss him terribly.
Dana
January 9, 2011 at 5:41 AMWhat a wonderful and beautiful way to celebrate our furry family members! I would love to have a portrait made of my sister’s ‘kids’, Madeline and Barclay, both Jack Russells. My sister is always doing so much for all of our ‘fur-less’ children. She definitely loves and cares for her niece and nephews as if they were her own. How special it would be to have a portrait of her children!
Danachancellor@hotmail.com
Dana
January 9, 2011 at 5:42 AMI now follow Karen’s blog!
Danachancellor@hotmail.com
judy
January 9, 2011 at 5:42 AMAmazing! Love her work! I would have her paint my 2 doggies baxter and milo, both rescue mixed mutts!
judy
January 9, 2011 at 5:43 AMAmazing! Love her work! I would have her paint my 2 doggies baxter and milo, both rescue mixed mutts!
judy
January 9, 2011 at 5:44 AMAmazing! Love her work! I would have her paint my 2 doggies baxter and milo, both rescue mixed mutts!
Gwiddle
January 9, 2011 at 5:50 AMI have two little dachshunds that I would love a painting of! Actually one is half chihuahua, but they are the cutest! I love all of her artwork, how awesome it could be if I won! haha.
Xhochixx@yahoo.com
keyskids
January 9, 2011 at 6:00 AMlove your paintings wish i could do this but alas it was not meant to be. have a cute like 5 pound chi that I would love a painting of. sandra
Amy
January 9, 2011 at 6:28 AMThese paintings are amazing! I’d have my sister’s dog painted because he’s really itchy and allergic to everything. The painting would make him look so healthy. 🙂
STAYC
January 9, 2011 at 6:33 AMWhat a gift she has! I would hands down have a painting of my little baby Daphnie! She is so full of life and sass, I love her!
staycsmart@gmail.com
Tinamarie
January 9, 2011 at 6:34 AMWow! Karen’s art is amazing! If I was lucky enough to win, I would definitely want one of my English Bulldog Rocky. Since they have fairly short life spans, that would be a fabulous keepsake of him.
Great giveaway – wonderful art!
STAYC
January 9, 2011 at 6:36 AMP.S. I’m a follower on her blog AND I tweeted about it! Doesn’t look like she has a twitter account, but I sent them her way!
@staycsmart
staycsmart@gmail.com
Mrs. T
January 9, 2011 at 7:14 AMYour work is inspiring. My husband and I were unable to have children together, so our 2 year-old puppy, a Shih tzu we named “Rembrandt” is our baby; we would love your work to grace our home!
Elsina
January 9, 2011 at 7:38 AMAmazing talented artist!! I would love a portrait of my cat Joey who went missing 484 days ago. I am still praying everyday for his return! Thank you for the chance!
Elsina
January 9, 2011 at 7:39 AMI am a follower of Karen’s blog!
Kansas Rural Center
January 9, 2011 at 12:27 PMFingers crossed. I’d adore a portrait of our rescued Chow, Cane.
Yaz
January 9, 2011 at 12:33 PMHer work is fantastic!
I would have our old lady dog, Kinley, painted. She’s making her last visit to the vet this week and I’d love to have her immortalized in art.
Susie
January 9, 2011 at 12:56 PMI was reminded just this week how our time was narrowing with our sweet beagle Benny–oh how I’d cherish a painted portrait of him from this very talented artist!
Minzy
January 9, 2011 at 1:50 PMoooh love this give away! I have an ADORABLE boston terrier pup that I would LOVE to have a painting of! <3
Minzy
January 9, 2011 at 1:50 PMoooh love this give away! I have an ADORABLE boston terrier pup that I would LOVE to have a painting of! <3
The Wool Acorn
January 9, 2011 at 2:44 PMBeautiful work… and such a lovely treat for some lucky blogger!!! If I win, the starring pet will be Doogie…. An award winning Scottish Fold. He’s chatty, he’s sassy, he’s all that and a bag of chips!
Thewoolacorn@gmail.com
Jenifer
January 9, 2011 at 2:52 PMI love the wall murals! I have a Mini Schnauzer named Zeus that would love to have his portrait painted. (he’s so spoiled!)
Tara T
January 9, 2011 at 2:54 PMWow, is she talented! I love her work and would love to have a portrait of my dog! Thanks for sharing.
Tara
taraespo21@google.com
Tammylee
January 9, 2011 at 3:02 PMI would love to have a portrait painted of our wonderful border collie Maggie. She has been a part of our family for almost 11 years now and it would be great to have a beautiful art piece to remember her by when she is no longer with us.
elizabeth
January 9, 2011 at 3:16 PMUnbelievable work! A painting of our cat, Murray, would be so unique and special. I have just the picture of him too.
Sparrow's Nest
January 9, 2011 at 3:27 PMNo way! I was actually just thinking about doing a portrait of our beautiful dog Journey! She’s a Husky mix with the strangest eyes I’ve ever seen. One is such a light blue it’s almost white, and the other is 3/4 brown and 1/4 that blue white. It looks like a kid was coloring her eye brown, and then just stopped picked up a light blue crayon and finished. Plus she’s such a sweet and good dog. The hubs and I love her to pieces.
Sparrow's Nest
January 9, 2011 at 3:39 PMI’m following Karen’s site now… just a few pages and I was hooked 🙂
What she did to that pediatric ward was pure magic!
Sparrow's Nest
January 9, 2011 at 4:07 PMI even linked this on facebook 🙂 normally I don’t do that, but I love these portraits and would love to have some of Karen’s art in my home!
Meredith
January 9, 2011 at 4:17 PMKaren’s work is spectacular! If I were to win, I would ask Karen to paint a portrait of my family dog; a beagle/boxer named Otis. Otis is about 2 years old now, and remarkably he still looks like a young puppy.
gina3
January 9, 2011 at 4:25 PMOh my goodness, this is one of the best giveaway opportunities ever! I would love to have a painting of my chocolate labs, Bella and Ballou. What a talented lady. Thank you for introducing her to us.
Treva
January 9, 2011 at 4:35 PMExtraordinary talent. I have two giant Schnoodles–Lulu and Cato. They would be adorable subjects.
Hi from Mike, Christy and Finn:
January 9, 2011 at 4:53 PMWow, just amazing!
I would have my late dog Maisie painted. She is a Westie, so I know the artist can do it right =)
nancie kay
January 9, 2011 at 5:12 PMwow…these are AWESOME!!!
i’d have a hard time choosing which of our 3 animals to have painted!! we’ve got 2 black and white cats..and one black and white shitzu..!!
i think if i won i’d be able to come up with something though!!
thanks for the opportunity!!
nancie kay
January 9, 2011 at 5:15 PMi’m following her blog too!!!!
DANA
January 9, 2011 at 5:20 PMI have a lab, a golden retriever,and a cat! I can’t get them to hang out together in real life so a painting would be great!
danajeanward@gmail.com
DANA
January 9, 2011 at 5:20 PMI have a lab, a golden retriever,and a cat! I can’t get them to hang out together in real life so a painting would be great!
danajeanward@gmail.com
KellyMellyBoBellyBananaFanna
January 9, 2011 at 6:02 PMI’d love to win this! I’d use it for one of our four dogs!
Kelly
helloprettyhoney
January 10, 2011 at 1:36 AMoohhh how I would love to win this. I just lost my little buddy Dobby on dec. 22. He was attacked, and it has been devestating for our family. What an awesome way to remember him 🙂
asnipofgoodness
January 9, 2011 at 7:19 PMShe is super talented!
Jenny
January 9, 2011 at 7:38 PMI’ve thought about having a portrait done of our dear lab Daisy with my husband. She is the perfect dog & so loving & happy all the time. She’s black so it’s hard to photograph her. A portrait would be so great!
Jenny
January 9, 2011 at 7:41 PMI followed the blog for another entry. Thanks!
The Brandt Family
January 9, 2011 at 8:53 PMWow, these are beautiful!
Faith
January 9, 2011 at 8:53 PMSo great! I would get a portrait of my sister’s cat, since the cat will probably not be around much longer.
GritsGreensNGrassStains
January 9, 2011 at 8:59 PMWhat a talented artist!!! Would love to win a pet portriat! Having a hard time deciding which dog though!! Hard choice between a jack russel, lab mix, or sheep dog mix, all shelter saves!
Lovely Lacey
January 9, 2011 at 9:24 PMI would love a portrait of any of my dogs! But if i had to choose one i guess it would have to be my oldest dog dallas.
Lovely Lacey
January 9, 2011 at 9:25 PMI have just became a follower on Karens blog 🙂
Lovely Lacey
January 9, 2011 at 9:28 PMI posted about the giveaway on my blogs facebook page.
Lisa
January 9, 2011 at 9:34 PMHi, I just became a follower on hers. Love her work.
Gigi
January 9, 2011 at 9:44 PMBeautiful!! I would love to have a portrait of our 14 year old Italian Greyhound. He is so precious to us.
Gigi
January 9, 2011 at 9:45 PMI am a follower of Karen’s blog.
other-option
January 9, 2011 at 9:56 PMWow – what a talent!
– Danielle
other-option AT hotmail DOT com
Cyndi
January 9, 2011 at 10:10 PMI would definitely get a portrait of my 2 dogs done. Her artwork is amazing!
BEL
January 9, 2011 at 10:27 PMI would love a portrait of my puppy, Stanley!
Heather
January 9, 2011 at 10:42 PMI would love to have my mothers dog, “Dudley” captured in a painting. He is getting older, and has recently had some issues that brought his declining health into perspective, and I know my mother would love to have a picture of him to keep forever…how special!
Heather
January 9, 2011 at 10:43 PMand I am following Karen’s blog. She is truly a talented lady!
Heather
January 9, 2011 at 10:43 PMand I am following Karen’s blog. She is truly a talented lady!
Ming
January 9, 2011 at 11:31 PMfollowing the blog YAY
Vicki Robison
January 10, 2011 at 12:14 AMI am so impressed. If i would win I would have my mom and dad’s dog painted. My dad has alzeheimers and they had to put the dog down but he still calls for the dog. Thanks again for the great opportunity.
The Irish Poodle
January 10, 2011 at 12:25 AMMy Standard Poodle Evan would make the best subject for one of Karen’s paintings. How generous she is to be offering this !
The Irish Poodle
January 10, 2011 at 12:28 AMI’m now following Karen’s wonderful blog.
JAB
January 10, 2011 at 12:37 AMI would have my two kitties painted!
The Irish Poodle
January 10, 2011 at 12:42 AMI’ve tweeted the good news about the awesome giveaway !!
Gaby
January 10, 2011 at 1:09 AMI would have her paint a portrait of my little man, Rufus. He’s the sweetest and funniest Bichon Frise ever!
Grogg
January 10, 2011 at 1:21 AMOh what lovely pet portraits! I’d have her paint a picture of my furry nephews, Jack (yellow lab mix) and Gus (Chestnut Bay Retriever).
MDiskin
January 10, 2011 at 2:16 AMI’d love a portrait of my lab/pit mix… the best, sweetest dog ever. Sadly we had to put her to sleep a few years ago but I’d love a little “RIP” portrait!
Laura
January 10, 2011 at 2:20 AMLove pet paintings! I had one done for my hubby when we were dating of his dog and now we are married and have another dog and would love to have one done of him!
Tracey
January 10, 2011 at 2:35 AMI would love to have my little “Princess” painted. She is 16 yrs old and while she has her slow days, she still shows some spunk! 🙂
lexlocilori
January 10, 2011 at 2:58 AMI would love to have a portrait of my chihuahua
Jeromy
January 10, 2011 at 3:07 AMI have the cutest shih-zu poodle named Parker that would be perfect for a piece of artwork.
Erin
January 10, 2011 at 4:31 AMJust became a follower of Karen’s blog!
iminozz
January 10, 2011 at 5:30 AMI would have a pic of my beloved Sadie-a aussie/golden mix and my loyal mate and friend for the past 11yrs. Just the thought of her playing in the yard and the sweet way she takes treats is a joy!
rachel lynne
January 10, 2011 at 6:04 AMLOVE this. I have a sweet boxer pup that would make the most adorable painting! : )
cstironkat
January 10, 2011 at 6:12 AMHer work is amazing, and for her to give a painting away is so cool. I would have my beloved Alaskan Malamute Meshindi painted.
cstironkat
January 10, 2011 at 6:13 AMI follow Karen’s blog on GFC as cstironkat
cstironkat
January 10, 2011 at 6:15 AMI tweeted http://twitter.com/cstironkat/status/24348379500777472
Alane
January 10, 2011 at 1:42 PMI blogged about this great giveaway!
danda@mvdsl.com
Melanie
January 10, 2011 at 1:47 PMHoly crap those murals look real! Karen’s so talented, thanks for doing a giveaway.
The Pierce's
January 10, 2011 at 1:58 PMI love this idea! I would want a picture of our sweet corgi-mix. He’s a little vain and would think this is fabulous.
WestCannon
January 10, 2011 at 2:09 PMLOVE this giveaway! I would love to have a portrait of our black lab “Samantha” and our blue Weimeraner “Brinkley” together. Sammy’s pretty and petite, Brinkley is a very handsome guy, with a unigue color.
Robyn
January 10, 2011 at 2:47 PMBeautiful paintings! I would get my dachshund Maverick painted.
Ashley @ Florida Bungalow
January 10, 2011 at 2:55 PMWow! I’m a proud Floridian right now. Karen’s work is amazing. I’d love to win this and have a painting of our cat Oz. 🙂
Reenie
January 10, 2011 at 3:17 PMI am a follower of Karen’s blog! 🙂 Love her work.
care
January 10, 2011 at 3:23 PMI hope it’s not too late to enter! I’d love this for my mother-in-law and her dog!
Ellen
January 10, 2011 at 3:29 PMKaren’s work is beautiful! She’s so talented! I’d love to enter the giveaway. I’d have a picture of my Golden Retriever Joey painted, which I’d proudly hang on my wall.
Chelsea
January 10, 2011 at 3:51 PMGorgeous! I would have our Rat Terrier, Barley, painted.
Thanks for the great giveaway!
~Chelsea
Low Tide High Style
January 10, 2011 at 5:33 PMYikes, I hope I’m not too late to enter this wonderful giveaway! Her paintings are gorgeous and I love the pet portraits!
I have 3 dogs so I wouldn’t be able to pick just one. I would have to take a picture of all three of them to have her work from.
Kat 🙂
Low Tide High Style
January 10, 2011 at 5:34 PMI’m now a follower of her blog and wow I love the other pet portraits she has scrolling on her sidebar!
Kat 🙂
sugarlilysea
January 10, 2011 at 6:06 PMI have always wanted a pet portrait of my beloved cat, Boo. Boo and I started out together when he was a kitten and I was 4, he lived 18 years and was my best friend. I loved him dearly and I still miss him and think about him 12 years after his passing. What a beautiful way to remember a friend!
Valerie
January 10, 2011 at 6:30 PMI would love to have a picture of our boys, Winston Grace and Charlie painted! 🙂
Ohio Senergy Boosters
January 10, 2011 at 7:25 PMAlthough we have several pets, I would definitely want one of our family dog Niko, a beautiful German Shepherd.
Stephanie M.
Heather
January 10, 2011 at 7:45 PMI would love to have one of my parents’ pets painted…maybe their emu, Kevin…or one of their fish. 🙂
Sharon
January 10, 2011 at 7:55 PMI have a rescue dog, who has a heart of gold and a personality to match, althought she’s a little unique in her appearance. My husband called UGLY the first time he saw her, but I know Karen would be able to capture her personality and unique beauty 🙂
Meredith
January 10, 2011 at 8:00 PMWOW!What a great giveaway…I think I would have to have our last dog Macee done and give it to my husband – best dog ever!