Featured Artist : Carol Russell South Paw Satchels

My name is Carol Russell and I'm from Fairfax, VA where I reside with my husband, son and little dog. It wasn't until recently I began painting. With a focus on animal portraits I have found that I have the ability to capture an animal's personality through their eyes. I believe an animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language.

I paint animal portraits on canvas, leather and vegan leather bags. The bags include lunch bags, coolers, tote bags, many styles of purses, backpacks, wine totes and a few PACKiT bags. I also paint canvas' for those who don't want a bag.

My inspiration is the animal itself. I've never seen an ugly dog, cat, horse or bird. Their eyes have so much to say, they have become my favorite part to paint. When I show a client a finished photo of their piece hearing them say how much they love it, fills my heart with happiness. Many of the pieces I have painted are of a person's sweet pet that has passed. Those people in particular are special. Knowing that I can bring them a piece of happiness from a pet that has passed is a wonderful and satisfying feeling.

I use several products from Dharma Trading. The Neopaque and Lumiere fabric paints are perfect for my fabric projects. When starting to paint leather and vegan leather pieces I discovered Angelus acrylic leather paints. Prior to finding these I had no idea there were acrylic leather paints. These are awesome! They mix, blend and work with the leather beautifully. When I finish a leather bag I apply the Angelus Satin Acrylic Finisher. It's easy to apply and does a great job protecting.