'Sentiment'

Artist Statement: I grew up in a home filled with art and animals. My father was a writer, sculptor, and social worker. My mother was a musician, painter and gardener. They collected local art and more than a few stray dogs. I can’t remember a day without a dog by my side nor can I imagine a day without them. I enjoy painting all kinds of animals and encouraging the viewer to connect with them the way I do. My greatest joy and honor come from portraying the spirit of companion animals. Getting the eyes just right. Making their human smile and maybe even cry, just a little.

Diane Kathleen, Vallejo, born 1957 in Texas moved to Colorado Springs in 1976. She studied art at PPCC and UCCS while working at Novis Frame & Art as a framer and Chinnook Bookshop as the front window and in store display Artists. Her specialty is drawing and painting companion and wildlife animals.

Diane’s artistic accomplishments include:

• Awarded Best of Show at Denver’s Niza Knoll Gallery in the Gone to the Dogs Show.
• Exhibited at Colorado Springs Airport, resulting in national sales and numerous commissions.
• 2016-2017 illustrated three children’s books about Samson, a heroic Old English Sheepdog for Author Monica Agnew-Kinnaman.