Scroll down and you will find my Artist's Statement along with photos of myself, the area I live in and my Pets
so you can get to know me better.
Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
Doing a demo at my booth at an art show
Artist Statement - Cynthia Christman
What an artist creates speaks to who they are. The beauty and intricacy of the natural world, particularly mammals, has been my lifelong obsession. Time stands still as I seek to capture the emotional connection I have with the subjects of my paintings. If I can share for even a moment the sense of wonder and beauty of my animal subjects with others, I will have accomplished the whole purpose of my art.
While photo-realism is currently out of vogue, I feel that I cannot improve on the beauty of the creatures that our creator made. I am compelled and challenged to capture the details that define the particular animal I am portraying, along with the emotion. Pastel on a velour substrate has proved to be an outstanding medium to do just that. Applied in layers on the velour creates a literal third dimension of depth that is impossible with acrylics, oils or other media. Fur really looks like one could reach into the painting and stroke it; eyes have a depth and brilliance that appear incredibly life-like.
Commissioned pet portraiture, primarily dog and equine, has been my focus the last few years, although I have found time to do some wildlife art primarily for myself. I feel it is a great privilege and a real joy to work with my clients in creating a treasured memory of their beloved pet. Capturing the personality of an individual animal is the ultimate challenge.
Although a self-taught artist, my various experiences have all merged to form the artist I am today. My BS in geology and Master’s training in paleontology focused me on bone structure and anatomy. Showing for conformation in dog shows taught me about musculature and movement. Since 1987 I have been working full time with the taxidermy industry, sculpting and specializing in pieces for large dioramas, competing and earning many top awards at the state, world and international levels.
I’ve was in my home/studio in St. Germain, WI since 1990, and had only recently begun pursuing flat art seriously. While I have had local showings and involvement, I hope to compete at larger venues in the near future.
Today I am enjoying my lifelong dream of living in the mountains. I moved to Helena, Montana in 2018 and built a lovely home/studio in the mountains by the Missouri River. Inspired by the tremendous beauty here, I hope to create some landscape art for sale in addition to my pet and wildlife portraits.
People’s Choice Best of Show – 2004 Manito Art League
Judge’s Choice Best Original Art – 2004 Wisconsin Deer Classic
State Award and LaCrosse Society of Arts and Crafts Award – 2007 Wisc. Regional Arts Program
While photo-realism is currently out of vogue, I feel that I cannot improve on the beauty of the creatures that our creator made. I am compelled and challenged to capture the details that define the particular animal I am portraying, along with the emotion. Pastel on a velour substrate has proved to be an outstanding medium to do just that. Applied in layers on the velour creates a literal third dimension of depth that is impossible with acrylics, oils or other media. Fur really looks like one could reach into the painting and stroke it; eyes have a depth and brilliance that appear incredibly life-like.
Commissioned pet portraiture, primarily dog and equine, has been my focus the last few years, although I have found time to do some wildlife art primarily for myself. I feel it is a great privilege and a real joy to work with my clients in creating a treasured memory of their beloved pet. Capturing the personality of an individual animal is the ultimate challenge.
Although a self-taught artist, my various experiences have all merged to form the artist I am today. My BS in geology and Master’s training in paleontology focused me on bone structure and anatomy. Showing for conformation in dog shows taught me about musculature and movement. Since 1987 I have been working full time with the taxidermy industry, sculpting and specializing in pieces for large dioramas, competing and earning many top awards at the state, world and international levels.
I’ve was in my home/studio in St. Germain, WI since 1990, and had only recently begun pursuing flat art seriously. While I have had local showings and involvement, I hope to compete at larger venues in the near future.
Today I am enjoying my lifelong dream of living in the mountains. I moved to Helena, Montana in 2018 and built a lovely home/studio in the mountains by the Missouri River. Inspired by the tremendous beauty here, I hope to create some landscape art for sale in addition to my pet and wildlife portraits.
People’s Choice Best of Show – 2004 Manito Art League
Judge’s Choice Best Original Art – 2004 Wisconsin Deer Classic
State Award and LaCrosse Society of Arts and Crafts Award – 2007 Wisc. Regional Arts Program
Scenery around my home
photos from Conover, Wisconsin.
Soon to add beautiful shots from my new digs in MT!
Soon to add beautiful shots from my new digs in MT!
The Artist at Work and PlayHover over photo and click play to see more photos
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The Artist's PetsHover over photo and click play to see my pets
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Thank you for visiting the Christman Pet Portrait and Wildlife Art Website.
All artwork Copyright Cynthia Christman and may not be copied or reproduced without Written Permission.
All artwork Copyright Cynthia Christman and may not be copied or reproduced without Written Permission.
