Writing a children's book about dogs in Baltimore might seem like a niche topic, and you might be wondering how I arrived at this unique choice. Well, it all began with my cat.
I’ve been fascinated with animals since I was a child and they were often my subjects for drawings and paintings. It was during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 that I rediscovered my passion for capturing the essence of animals through art.
Before the pandemic, I was immersed in a different world, that of a full-time yoga instructor. Unfortunately, when COVID hit, all the yoga studios I taught for shut down, leaving me unemployed. Instead of viewing this as a setback, I saw it as an opportunity to dive into my art.
My first muse during this creative exploration was none other than my cat, Bonez, otherwise known as Mr. Bonez, but his full name is actually Pete Bonez Bo Curtis Jones Babones Bob Dylan Brian. Don’t we all have various silly names for our pets? As I painted that portrait of Bonez, something magical happened. The process ignited joy and passion within me. It was at that moment I realized that animal portraiture could be my niche in the art world. It was as if the child within me, who doodled animals daily, was awakened and merged with adult me, who has formal art training.
My love for animals, coupled with the therapeutic benefits of making art, fueled my artistic endeavors. I have an entrepreneur spirit, it’s in my birth chart, and I value being passionate about the work that I do. Combine the passion of an entrepreneur with child-like whimsy, and my business was born, formerly known as Bailey Marie Studio, now known as Animals by Bailey.
I made my first sale at the 32nd St Farmers Market - the painting of Bonez. Marc Rey, who organized the market for many years bought my painting. Sadly, Marc has since passed away. Marc was always welcoming and enthusiastic about my artwork, and he had the best style. I hope my painting of Bonez got passed along to someone he loved. He will be missed by many. Little did I know, my first market would mark the beginning of many more to come.
Notably, during that same market, I had the pleasure of selling my artwork titled "Picnic Pig" to a local baker. I see her whenever I go to the 32nd St Market. She recognizes me as the pig painter, and I recognize her as the baker who loves pigs.
The success of that initial market fueled my determination, and I returned with an expanded collection of paintings. As demand grew, I introduced prints of my animal artworks, and merchandise including tote bags, t-shirts, and stickers. Since then I’ve sold art at a number of local markets, but the 32nd St Farmers Market will always hold a special place in my heart - where it all began.
In response to numerous requests, I embraced a new artistic venture – pet portraits. These personalized paintings allow me to capture the unique essence of pets owned by the wonderful individuals I’ve met at markets. I am guided by the encouragement and enthusiasm of those who appreciate my work.
As I continue to share my passion for art, each pet portrait carries the stories and connections I’ve made in these vibrant community spaces.
I most frequently receive requests for portraits of dogs living in Baltimore city. Now, the lifelong dream of publishing a children's book has found its inspiration – the heartwarming concept of dogs meeting each other in Baltimore! All thanks to… my cat.