WICKED
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.
She wasn’t meant to be a breeding dog—some eye issues made her a poor candidate—but she made it clear that she really wanted to be part of a family.
Wicked was their first Samoyed, and she set the tone for everything that came after. She was a people dog through and through. She wanted to be in the thick of things, preferably causing just enough trouble to make you laugh and shake your head at the same time.
She earned her name honestly. Stealing turkeys off counters? Check. Snagging steaks off plates? Absolutely. In her mind, the fun was worth any consequence. She was the household “fun police”—barking at the other dogs to stop playing just when they were getting started.
She was dramatic, elegant, and full of personality. Wicked had a talent for falling asleep in the most delightfully ridiculous positions. She tolerated a new puppy. Then another. And showed them exactly how a Samoyed should rule the house.
Even after a cancer diagnosis at 13, she kept living on her own terms. Her oncologist said it best: “Oh, don’t tell her she’s 13. She has no idea.”
Wicked is gone now, but she lives on in the hearts of those who adored her—and in the snow-draped portrait that captures her bold, bright spirit forever.
Using the images, I created a few mockups and then started refining both the dog and the background elements until the family was happy.
Then I painted it digitally.
The digital painting which was then sent to a trusted vendor to print on canvas. (click to see full-screen)
Adding the acrylic embellishments.
The finished painting, framed ready to ship out.
Interested in your own commission? Check out the commissions page for more information
and then reach out to get the process started!
A glowing review from Brandy’s mom:
I just received the portrait I commissioned to recreate my beloved Irish Setter, Brandy. He was my first dog and died in 1987. Danica Barreau, master artist, brought him back to life!
2003 & 2004 Maxwell winner