“After adopting our rescue dog Maxx, a shih tzu, in the summer of 2009, it all came together,” artist Carmen Willm says. “This little fur ball that took over our home also took over our hearts. He brought an abundance of smiles and joy to everyone.” That includes Carmen’s hardworking husband Lee, contractor and owner of Willm Construction. Maxx also inspired Carmen to hit the canvas again with a new purpose – to capture the essence of this little animal as a treasure forever. Painting Maxx’s portrait led to painting even more pets for friends and family, along with donations of pet portraits to several charitable organizations.
“I enjoy getting to know each client and really listening to what they want to see in the final piece. It is important for me to get to know the personalities of both the pet and its owner. Reference images given to me should capture something special about each pet, such as a favorite napping spot, a well-loved toy, or an all-telling expression.”
“It was such a joy for me to paint Bo (featured in the photo above) for my most recent clients, Beverly and Steve Elliott. After their 16-year-old son, Ashby, received Bo’s portrait as a Christmas gift, he exclaimed, ‘Wow! It looks just like him!’” The Elliotts give further praise, saying, “Carmen did a wonderful job capturing the true essence of Bo lounging in his favorite chair. This is a keepsake that our family will treasure forever. Thank you, Carmen!”
Carmen was very excited to be the featured artist in the Columbia Metropolitan Dream Home at the Saluda River Club in October 2011. She will be exhibiting some of her work at M. Gallery Interiors in Lexington this coming spring. She also will have a custom pet portrait available for bid at the Aids Benefit Foundation event, Dining With Friends Silent Auction, taking place on March 24, 2012.
Carmen primarily uses oils on canvas. While the latest pieces have been pet portraits, she is not limited to painting animals. If interested in discussing any commissioned artwork pricing with her, please call (803) 513-1410 or email carmen_willm@yahoo.com.
