Like most of the people I know, I was excited for the election. I knew it would be close, but the polls all pointed to Hillary being our next president. This painting started out as a celebration of women breaking the biggest glass ceiling. In retrospect, it is one more case that for women, it's not enough to be the smartest, most qualified person to get the job. That she lost to someone who has no experience, doesn't seem to know or care how government works, and has openly encited the radical right to lash out at racial and religious minorities  makes me fearful for the next four years.

I do believe that we've come very far since women gained the right to vote in 1920, and all races gained the right in 1965. I pray that we continue to embrace our diversity and personal freedoms.

If you think one person doesn't matter, have I got a story for you. I played a very small part, but it touched me to my core.

Several months ago, Marc Ching and his org (Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation) shared a story and photos of a beautiful black dog rescued from the dog meat trade in Cambodia. I was touched by the photo, and asked for permission to paint a portrait of it. I told them I would donate 100% of the sale to their org. They agreed; I posted the painting on a number of websites, and showed it at EAST last week. I hoped this sweet pup would find a loving home in the states, and that Marc and his family have some peace after his 9th rescue trip. It must take an awful toll to do that even once.

Well, apparently the dog has a name (Justice) and a very loving family now! Michelle Edwards (who lives in Oregon) adopted her, found me online, and shared these beautiful new photos of Justice. These are the happy endings (beginnings, actually!) that I live for! Thank you, Marc, and your small crew for making a huge difference in the world, one dog at a time! And thanks to Michelle and everyone else who adopts a rescue dog– through Animal Hope and Wellness, or through your local animal shelter.

One person can make a difference in the life of a dog. Many shelters are still kill centers.
Finally, please support Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation. www.animalhopeandwellness.org They are the best of us!

(the painting is on its way to Michelle and Justice, and 100% of the sale is being donated to Animal Hope and Wellness, so they can save more lives. Win, win, win!)

I am very excited to be showing with a r t h a u s | a t x at Revelry Studio during Austin's largest free self-guided art tour. There are 7 in our group, with diverse disciplines, so there is something for everyone (and every budget). Our location is 2511 E. 6th St. with many other stops in walking distance. I hope to see you there!