Denver artist Julia McClurg has painted more than 400 commissioned pet portraits over nearly seven years. She is fascinated with the use of exuberant colors and is inspired by all the different personalities she has painted. Julia's whimsical, contemporary work is an alternative to realistic pet paintings. "It's important to me that I catch the spirit of the subject I am painting," she says. "I enjoy being able to capture the essence and personality of each animal through their expression." Julia generously donated a hand-painted wing chair with her mask valued at $3,000.