Zaine

Portrait of a Beloved Friend

11” x  14” x .1”. Layered cardstock, cherry wood veneer, birch wood veneer, metallic paper and colored pencil on board. Framed in Studio Decor shadowbox. Created in 2023.

Artist: Michael Harris

Commission for Jennifer.

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Zaine’s Story

Zaine was an emotional support dog for my customer’s daughter. Tragically, Zaine lost his life in the 2018 Iconic Apartments Fire in San Marcos, TX. His death was devastating to his family.

I was asked if I could create a portrait of him using my layered paper technique in the summer of 2023. I had never attempted a creating a paper portrait anyone before and I wasn’t sure if this was the right project for me. However, after hearing about Zaine’s life and his passing, I was moved to create a piece of art that would honor his memory. The finished portrait was given as a gift from mother daughter on Christmas Day 2023.