Allow Myself to Introduce....Myself.

There are two things I love most in this world. My family and my painting. Therefore, it seems quizzical that it took so long for me to pursue this endeavor. Better late than never, I suppose!

My name is Natalie Hirshman and I am a lifelong lover of all animals, big and small (arachnids are another story, but I'm working on that). I've been an artist as long as I can remember, developing my craft as a result of a mix of formal training and self-taught techniques. For those of you who know me well will roll their eyes, knowing that I am quite stubborn, so I have to admit it's a bit more of a matter of personal artistic exploration, as opposed to rules. I feel adamant that art comes alive when it is developed purely from the heart, the mind, and spirit. Although I can encounter a roadblock or twenty following this path, I'm never disappointed at what new surprises and revelations appear from each new piece. My goal is to capture the spirit of each subject, uniquely and wholly (and hopefully with a couple of giggles).

Just because my work is special, doesn't mean it can't be funny, too. I mean, really, who else makes you laugh after the worst day ever? That's right. Your Exalted Pet.

Speaking of exalted pets, these are my amazing sons, Hansel and Derek. Yes, from Zoolander. We rescued these amazing supermodel hounds from Greyhound Pets of America, OC/GLA almost 4 years ago now. We encourage you to help us promote this amazing cause by regularly visiting www.fastfriends.org. The hounds thank you and an addition to your household will change their lives forever, as well as yours. It sure did mine.

Hansel and Derek have been dubbed the Dangerous Duo, Batman and Robin, Ebony and Ivory, but most importantly, best friends. They have a website of their own: www.mugatusdogs.blogspot.com. Naturally. You will see them make regular appearances on this site, considering they were my first models. Again, naturally.

This is Thomas and Princess. These two beauties chose us while visiting the OC Animal Shelter 5 years ago and have been an irreplacable staple in our lives. Their interests include eating, sleeping, purring, and making the house beautiful with their presence. Oh, they are also my muses; as you can see from the first photo. One or the other or both always watch me paint at a chair to my right and give me advice, critique and inspiration. Probably the only critique I listen to.

And this little toughie is Gizmo. He came to us unexpectedly in June, after being abandoned for months by his original owner at our vet. Of course, he came home with us. Can you believe this silver fox is 15 years young? I know. We turn out some charming pets, we do. After a couple days of mutual disgust, curiosity literally killed my cats and a union between the three was inevitable. Gizzie is still not a fan of the dogs, but lately he's made brave journeys from the comfort of his sunny guest bedroom to the downstairs, in his quest to investigate the unknown. Little Gizmoto has discovered that the world, indeed, is not flat; it is, rather, two stories tall.

And this handsome devil is my super-hubby of four years, Ben. Although not a pet of mine (some may consider that statement debatable), he has given me unconditional support with this crazy ride I've chosen to take. He's a great dad, too. We love you, Dad! Woof! Meow!

So, you wonder how I came about Exalted Pets and why it took me so darn long? Well, the first answer you will find in the next post. The second, well, there's no excuse there, nes pas? Some would call it artist's block, I would call it "perfectionist" syndrome, but all it was really was facing my fears and just deciding to jump in and go for it. Ah, I feel much better now.

I hope you enjoy my work and laugh as much as I do! Come back often, for Princess has a lot of "musing" still to do! Cheers!

Natalie