While living in New York City, artist Brenda Wolf had a dream of a grizzly bear. It was a transformative experience that led her to painting animals, and eventually, in 1997, moving to Great Falls, Montana, where she’s been ever since. “And I haven’t stopped yet, nor have I looked back,” she says. 
Harmon, pastel, 40 x 40”
Wolf, who paints using her fingers due to the closer connection to the artwork, says she begins each painting starting with their eyes. Eventually a name jumps out at her “and we are off on our journey of self-discovery. My emotions are expressed through their faces, both subtle and strong,” she says. “The finished piece conveys a particular emotion for me. Each animal/painting is a direct link to my subconscious and in turn, allows me to have a visual dialog with the viewer.”
Beau, pastel, 20 x 30”
Recent animals include a raven (Iris), snow leopard (Magda), snow egret and raven (Chloe & Hank), buffalo (Beau) and a longhorn (Harmon).
“My animals are totems and guides for me. I don’t choose the animal; it chooses me.
Lawrence, pastel, 30 x 40”
I am always excited when a new animal enters my life. The path of the unknown is filled with deep compassion, self-exploration and an unfolding of understanding of their lives and mine,” Wolf says. “The message or emotions are never fully realized until the piece is completed, sometimes it may take several paintings for me to understand the emotional path that particular animal intends for me. It’s a journey of self, seen through the vocabulary of animal portraits. My commitment is to my emotions and to the animal who has guided me so steadily and courageously.”
The best part of her work: she never knows what animal will show up next, or what journey it may take her on. —
Want to See More?
www.brendawolf.com
(406) 868-1234 | thewildlife@brendawolf.com
Instagram: @brendawolfart
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