6 Animal Works Earn Top Honors
From a riveting rabbit to a beautiful bovine, there’s something for just about every animal lover in this prizewinning category.
Top “Other” Winner
“The inspiration behind my winning image—a watercolor painting of a rabbit titled Palm Is the Cradle—encompasses a rich tapestry of personal and cultural connections. Growing up in China, I was deeply influenced by the legend of the moon rabbits—mythical creatures that symbolize longevity and harmony said to reside on the lunar surface. This legend, rooted in my cultural heritage, infuses my artwork with a sense of wonder and nostalgia.
“The central motif of the painting—a girl gently cradling a white rabbit—reflects not only the moon rabbit legend but also a cherished childhood memory. My grandpa had a pet rabbit for eight years, which became my dear friend during visits to his home. I vividly recall holding the rabbit in my arms, feeling a profound connection to nature and companionship.
“Through Palm Is the Cradle, I aimed to capture the tender bond between humans and animals, echoing themes of care, friendship, and the enduring magic of childhood. The girl’s gentle embrace symbolizes not only the nurturing relationship with the rabbit, but also a broader reverence for life’s simple joys and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
“The soft hues of watercolor and the delicate brushstrokes further enhance the painting’s emotional depth, inviting viewers to experience a moment of tranquility and introspection. Ultimately, my artwork is a celebration of love, memory, and the timeless beauty found in the embrace of a cherished companion.”—Tianzheng Dang
Why It Stands Out
“There’s so much emotion in this painting! The dreamy painting style suits the image perfectly. The bunny is center stage—and looks startled to be there. All the detail is on her face, and her eyes keep us riveted on her stare. The intimate viewpoint and the focused lighting create an atmosphere of mystery that we don’t care if we never figure out because the subject is so darned cute!”—Rita Kirkman, Juror
Meet the Artist
Tianzheng Dang, born in Shanghai, China, in 2006, embarked on his artistic journey under the influence of his mother’s work in the animation industry. At the age of seven, he commenced formal art education during weekends. At the age of 11, he exhibited in his first international pastel competition, in Shanghai, as the youngest exhibitor. At the age of 12, Dang moved to Brisbane, Australia, where he has continued his artistic pursuits.
Dang uses watercolor and charcoal to push the boundaries of storytelling through art. In his constant quest to push those boundaries, he’s persistent in experimenting with his inspirations and artistic translations. Experience with videography and photography has attributed greatly in his use of props and natural lighting, and translates to the overall harmony of his visual layouts.
An Animal Artist’s Greatest Asset
“The key to creating a successful and exceptional painting of an animal lies in capturing its essence and personality,” says Dang. “Focus on conveying the animal’s unique characteristics, emotions and environment through skillful use of color, texture, composition, and attention to detail to tell the story behind it. This can elevate the painting to a higher level of impact and resonance.”
Honorable Mentions
“I met Cosmic Kaze—Cosi as he was nicknamed—during a visit to a stable where a friend had two horses of her own. Cosi was considered the leader of the other horses there and had quite a jokester personality. I spent some time with him and, at one moment, he turned and threw me this look as if to say, ‘Really? Are you going to watch me all day?’ With this painting, the process from start to finish felt very natural, almost effortless. It was exciting to bring to life.”—Denise Petersen
WHY IT STANDS OUT
“I like seeing a successful, non-traditional cropping of a portrait. This narrow crop implies even more movement to the tossing head, which enhances the animal’s attitude. Beyond that, the very subtle color variances and value control make this almost-monochromatic painting glow.”—Rita Kirkman, Juror
“At the National Museum of the American Indian, in Washington, D.C., there’s a Mayan calendar. I was in Belize talking to a Mayan just a few months before the calendar cycled again. There were rumors going around that the world would end when the calendar restarted. It didn’t.
“No matter what season we are in, there’s a cycle to life when we’re gathering something. We gather skills that allow us to navigate adulthood, and wealth and assets that allow us to raise our families. In retirement, we gather memories of wonderful experiences. Round and round we go, always in pursuit of something.”—Debra Keirce
WHY IT STANDS OUT
“I love this original image concept. Whether taken directly from one reference or carefully composed, the imagery is clever, cute, and superbly rendered. The left-centered squirrel balances the subtle off-center circle. The Mayan calendar hints at symbolism to tease the viewer’s imagination.”—Rita Kirkman, Juror
“My inspiration comes from the rich, storied history of agriculture in the Midwest, where I live. Our farm has been in the family for more than 100 years, which motivates me to celebrate that heritage through my art. Cattle have such a stark, rugged beauty, and I knew that beauty would be enhanced by the glowing rim of sunshine. It highlights the powerful form of this animal which may otherwise seem, to some, rather plain. There truly is a splendor about all animals, even the ‘common’ ones, if we only take time to notice.”—Jenna Hestekin
WHY IT STANDS OUT
“All in all, this is a masterful scratchboard work with exquisite details and control of values. The light glows. The artist’s handling of lost edges allows this composition to hang delicately off the right side of the frame while not losing a pound of solidity in the invisible body of the cow.”—Rita Kirkman, Juror
“Eagle Eye is a painting of Miss Zamanbol, the eagle huntress of western Mongolia. She learned the ancient practice of hunting with golden eagles when she was very young. When she was in high school, she was the first female to compete in and win the annual eagle hunting. The most challenging part of this painting was capturing the feeling of that strong bond between the fearless huntress and her eagle.”—Neena Makhija
WHY IT STANDS OUT
“What a compelling and unique composition! There’s a story in this image full of magic and adventure. The eagle and woman’s overlapping faces and matched gazes suggest a metaphysical, or spiritual, connection. The variety of meticulous textures show incredible patience and skill with the medium.”—Rita Kirkman, Juror
“The last warm hues of golden leaves complement the cool blues in the snow. Matey, my favorite bovine, contemplates the changing landscape and dreams of greener pastures. Here I applied a wet underpainting on UART 400 paper using Art Graf Tailor chalks before adding a variety of soft pastels. By lightly scumbling a pastel across the background, the Art Graf underpainting can still be seen and is incorporated into the final painting.”—Maryann Mullett
WHY IT STANDS OUT
“First Snow is a superb example of using a background to enhance the ‘place’ of a portrait. This cow is in her environment, and it’s cold and windy! Already a lovely and expressive portrait, the landscape adds meaning to her windblown fur, and the colors perfectly portray the temperature and the time of place. It’s an excellent handling of the pastel medium.”—Rita Kirkman, Juror
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