The dogs (and cats) of mysterious lineage, along with a particularly snowy winter, inspired her recent paintings.Though Petrulis grew up in a family of musicians, she earned an MFA in studio art from Indiana State University. In the community she is involved with Art Spaces, Inc.-Wabash Valley Outdoor Sculpture Collection. Along with her husband, she has rescued several animals, thus contributing to the livelihood of local veterinarians. These rescues unintentionally led to her current body of work “Dog Studies.”
The acrylic paintings making up the series “Dog Studies,” are tributes to the profound impact that pets play in our daily lives. Close-up views focus on the shapes of pets, and the spaces between them, revealing family relationships. The intimate views emphasize the elegance of animal bodies through the stark contrast of black and white. Since several of the original canine and feline models have passed, the paintings have also become memorials to these beloved companions.
More information about the artist and her work can be found at her website elizabethpetrulis.com.