Dogs hold a special place in the hearts of their owners, providing unwavering companionship and love. Artist Anneli Kirby, also known as AnneliFelts, pays tribute to these cherished pets through her custom 3D dog portraits. Using the needle felting technique, she skillfully creates lifelike yet stylized canine sculptures that seem to leap from their picture frames into reality. In this article, we explore the captivating world of needle-felted pet portraits and the artist behind these delightful creations.
Needle felting is a process that involves the use of barbed needles to sculpt and shape wool fibers into a desired form. By repeatedly poking the wool with the needle, the fibers become entangled, creating a firm and cohesive structure. This technique allows for incredible detail and precision, making it a perfect choice for realistic pet portraits.
Anneli Kirby’s journey with needle felting began when she decided to create portraits of her own two dogs. Initially, she attempted to craft small, handheld sculptures, but the results did not meet her expectations. Wanting to add a fun and unique touch to her gallery wall, Kirby decided to frame the pieces, and she was pleased with the outcome. The combination of dimensionality and an anchored surface provided an attractive way to showcase the pet portrait while allowing for an unobstructed view of the canine’s likeness and the artist’s skill.
Kirby’s needle-felted dog portraits are distinctive in that they strike a balance between realism and caricature. While some needle felting artists utilize wireframes to create highly accurate sculptures, Kirby opts for a more freehand approach. This choice results in portraits that may not be as precise, but they possess a unique charm and appeal.
Kirby’s primary goal is to capture the personality of each dog while maintaining her signature style. This focus on the intangible aspects of her subjects sets her work apart and lends a sense of warmth and character to each piece.
For dog lovers, Kirby’s custom pet portraits offer a one-of-a-kind way to celebrate their beloved furry friends. Through her online shop, customers can commission a portrait that captures the essence of their canine companion. These personalized works of art make for meaningful and memorable gifts, whether for oneself or a fellow dog enthusiast.
Anneli Kirby’s needle-felted pup portraits are a heartfelt testament to the enduring bond between humans and their canine companions. Her artistic process, which combines realism with a touch of whimsy, results in captivating and endearing works of art that capture the essence of each dog’s personality. These custom pet portraits offer a unique and sentimental way to celebrate our cherished furry friends and the joy they bring to our lives.
Anneli Felts
Via: MyModernMet