English Setters hold a special place in my work.
If you’re curious why, you can read more about my experience living with and painting the breed here.

He wasn’t an easy dog to live with—always escaping, always chasing, never listening. But over time, Nigel grew into a true farm dog: clever, vocal, and completely devoted to his family. He spent his final years running the fields, hunting mice, and greeting every visitor to the farm like an old friend.

When his body began to fail, his spirit never did. And on his last day, he returned to the place he loved most one final time.

Now, his portrait keeps watch over the barn where he's buried—his home, his happy place, his forever field.

Some gifts you never expect.

Wicked came into Tom and Liz’s life after their wedding, thanks to one persistent friend who insisted on giving them “something special.” That something turned out to be a young Samoyed—mischievous, wild-hearted, and entirely unforgettable.

Named after the infamous outlaws—whose historic stomping grounds ran just down the road—their names were fitting, and not just because of geography. Frank and Jesse were a bonded pair, mischief-makers from the start. They once pulled an entire pan of homemade lasagna outside to enjoy alfresco. It wouldn’t be the last time they made their own rules.

An excerpt from “Setterly Yours: The Photographic Introduction to the English Setter” by Danica Barreau

Even within the individual setter breeds there is a lot of variety. English Setters come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes. The English Setters you see on TV during the dog shows may look very different from the dogs you see hunting in the field.  There is no "right" or "wrong" type.  Every English Setter is an enthusiastic bird dog with a quirky personality, regardless of their coat, color, or size. 

As a devoted English Setter owner and artist, attending the ESAA National Specialty is always a highlight of my year. This year’s event was particularly special—not only was it just a short drive from home, but it also marked a significant milestone for my business.

On a sunny day in March I drove up to Akron to photograph puppies. Yeah, it’s a dream job, I know it! I had been commissioned to create a painting for the ESAA National in September and I wanted some reference images of playful puppies. I spent several happy hours chasing these guys around the yard and filling up my cameral “roll”.

Grove City Photographer Named Gold Medalist and GIA Finalist at the International Photographic Competition

Grove City, Ohio – Danica Barreau, of Pouka Art & Photography, was one of 60 photographers honored as a Gold Medalist at Professional Photographers of America’s (PPA) 2020 International Photographic Competition (IPC). This year’s competition had over 5,200 entries and is the most prestigious competition of its kind, where images are judged based on a standard of artistic excellence, not against each other. Mrs. Barreau had four images accepted into PPA’s Loan Collection and two images accepted into their Showcase Collection.

An excerpt from “Setterly Yours: A Photographic Introduction to The English Setter” by Danica Barreau about deaf English Setters.