In this exclusive interview, we explore the inspiring world of custom pet watercolor portraits for charity. Since 2018, the “Watercolors for Donation” project has transformed digital artistry into a lifeline for animal rescues, proving that a single portrait can provide the funding needed for life-saving medical care.
As a professional pet care specialist in Kansas City, my days are filled with the tangible aspects of pet parenting: Fear Free® handling, and the meticulous care of our feline “fur-babies.” However, our mission at Just Fur-Babies has always been about more than just logistics; it is about honoring the profound bond between humans and their animals.
Several years ago, while visiting a client in a beautiful Olathe home, my eyes were immediately drawn to a series of stunning watercolor portraits hanging on the wall. They weren’t just paintings; they captured the very essence of her pets—that specific “glint” in the eye and the personality that only a pet parent truly knows.
When I asked about them, I was introduced to the work of an artist named Elle and her mission-driven project, Watercolors for Donation. Intrigued, I joined her Facebook group and found myself in awe of the beautiful pieces she was creating daily. Since then, Elle has created lasting memories for me, my family, my friends, and my clients. Her work does more than just decorate a room—it supports lives.
Today, I’m sitting down with Elle to go behind the scenes of her art, her impact on the rescue community, and the history we’ve built together through her incredible talent.
The Spark of a Mission: From Emergency to Advocacy
Kelly: What was the specific inspiration that led you to transition to painting for donations on Facebook, and how has that mission changed since you started?
Elle: “I had an situation with my dog Sailor who needed emergency surgery. I had been forced into retirement as a hair stylist because of a spinal cord injury that left me as a paraplegic. I have always loved photoshop and used it as a creative outlet. When Sailor became sick I did the only thing I could think of to help cover the bill.
I went to a FaceBook group that I follow and asked if I could please do a fundraiser, I would digitally create photos from pictures for any donation. In a little more than 2 weeks I raised $5,000 for her surgery. I started getting messages to please start a group where I could continue to do them. It sounded like the perfect way to help support my family now that I could no longer do hair.
I was so grateful to the St. Louis rescue group that allowed me to fundraise, I offered them a fundraiser where they would get 100% of the donations. Everyone loved the fundraiser. I got to know some amazing new people. So I did it again and again… That was in 2018, and here we are. It has given me purpose and fulfills a need to support communities and the selfless people who are making their corner of the world better.”
Measuring the Impact: Over $237,000 Raised for Animals
In the world of animal rescue—whether it’s my work on the boards of Meowy Matchmakers or Luv A Chin Rescue—we know that every dollar translates to a life saved. The scale of Elle’s contribution is staggering.
Kelly: Your work has clearly touched many lives. Looking back at the rescues you’ve supported, do you have a sense of how many animals you’ve helped or the total amount of funds your art has raised for these organizations?
Elle: “To date I’ve raised $237,046, and have done over 10,000 pieces of art”
This level of dedication is what differentiates a “hobbyist” from a true professional. In Kansas City’s finest neighborhoods, from Olathe to Waldo, pet parents value this kind of measurable, compassionate impact.
The Weight of a Tribute: More Than Just Paint
Watercolor is a medium of transparency and light, but when it comes to memorializing a pet, the emotional weight is heavy.
Kelly: Out of all the portraits you’ve done, what is the most interesting or unique subject you’ve recreated—perhaps one that pushed your skills in an unexpected direction?
Elle: “I love all of them so much. Each portrait means something to the person who commissioned it, however I would have to say that tribute pieces are a little different. It’s pure love for that furbaby or person and it really really needs to be right. I’m being trusted to do them justice and memorialize them. I take that responsibility seriously.”
At Just Fur-Babies, we often discuss the “Rule of Three” and the slow integration of new siblings, but the hardest part of the journey is the final goodbye. Elle’s ability to “do justice” to those memories provides a form of healing that words often cannot.
The Secret to the “Glimmer”: Listening to the Eyes
If you look at one of Elle’s portraits, the first thing you notice is the life in the eyes. As a Fear Free® certified professional, I spend my day reading animal body language—the slow blink of a cat, the tension in a dog’s brow. Elle captures these same nuances digitally.
Kelly: How do you identify those specific ‘glimmer’ moments or expressions that make the animal’s personality truly shine through?
Elle: “This is going to sound corny LOL but it’s true. For each photo I take a moment and just let the universe talk. Then I start with the eyes and work outwards. The eyes say it all. When I’m going the wrong direction I feel it in my gut. It’s just off. So I’ll minimize the screen, take a sip of coffee and reset. Usually that works and my 2nd go around flows perfectly.”
” I can’t begin to tell you how much I love and appreciate the picture of Gidget!! It’s so comforting! So much better than looking at an empty perch or blank wall. It’s already hanging on the wall where her perch was.” – Julie B.
A Community of Healing and Accessibility
One of the most remarkable aspects of “Watercolors for Donation” is the lack of barriers. In a world of premium services, Elle has maintained a “pay-what-you-want” model that ensures every pet parent can have a keepsake.
Kelly: What is the most touching piece of feedback you’ve received from a donor that reminded you why this work is so important?
Elle: “There was this sweet little kitten (okay, a full-on cat now, lol) who was diagnosed with FIP. He just needed a chance, but the treatment is really expensive. A fundraiser ended up raising enough to get him the care he needed, and I was lucky enough to get lots of updates along the way. He pulled through and now he’s thriving.
On the days when I get a lot of shade from traditional physical artists, I go back and reread those messages. It reminds me that what I do can actually make a difference. I also hear from people who say the artwork made them cry happy tears. Sometimes it’s bittersweet—especially when it’s connected to a loss—but it can be really healing too. I’m especially proud that I’ve set things up so anyone who wants artwork can get it. I work on a pay-what-you-want basis, so there aren’t barriers. If someone wants a piece, they can have one. I’ve received so many touching messages from people thanking me for making it accessible to everyone.”
The Intersection of Art and Advocacy
Meeting Elle and witnessing the growth of Watercolors for Donation has been a highlight of my journey as a pet specialist. Whether she is helping a family in Olathe memorialize a long-time companion or raising thousands for a rescue in St. Louis, her mission mirrors our own: Caring for your fur-babies where they love to live.
Art has the power to heal, to fund, and to remember. We are so proud to partner with creators like Elle who use their unique talents to make the world a kinder place for animals.
If you are looking to capture the “glimmer” in your own pet’s eyes while supporting a worthy cause, I highly encourage you to visit Elle’s Facebook group. You won’t just walk away with a stunning portrait; you’ll be part of a $237,000 (and counting!) legacy of love.
