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Together (Lily and Clover)

"Together (Lily & Clover)," 6" x 12", bunny portrait, Golden Open Acrylics on canvasboard, $359 to the first collector who asks nicely (and remember, if you already have an original, you get 10% off!). Proceeds from the sale of this painting will go to my local shelter, the Oakland Pet Adoption Center. Inquiries may always come to me.

I'd like you to meet the newest Santini family members, delightfully personable even though they have their backs to us in this painting. Lily of the Valley (white bunny with gray ears) and Clover, or Lil and Clo for short, joined us in early September.

This summer Evan and Anna talked Dad into allowing them to get a rabbit (I'm a pushover - I always say yes when it involves an animal). They saved up their money, researched rabbit care, and helped Dad build a hutch.

I let my girlfriend know we were on the hunt for a bunny - she is an animal control officer at our shelter and she promised to keep an eye out for us. We also looked into a Michigan based bunny rescue, but their adoption fees were a little stiff for the kid's allowances. Meanwhile we waited patiently, knowing that ultimately the right one would show up locally or the kids would eventually scrap together enough funds to go with the rescue group.

And then my girlfriend called - there was not one but two darling bunnies who had just been released for adoption. Found running wild, they had definitely grown up around people and dogs, as they were easily handled, overly friendly, and practically fearless. After the kids met them, and fell instantly in love, we arranged the adoption, had them vetted and spayed and they came home a week later.

These two are always together, grooming each other, snuggling, chasing or taunting the other. It has been a delight to watch them adapt to a new routine, explore their new home and relish in the kids' attention. I've also loved seeing Evan and Anna turn into caregivers - they take their responsibilities very seriously.

Suffice it to say that Lil and Clo have brought much joy into the household and a good amount of inspiration into the studio. I'm certain you'll see many paintings of these two in the coming months.

Thanks, as always, for looking at - and sharing - my artwork with your friends and family.
Kim
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