C.Rae and hubby

A little about me:

My name is Carla Rae. I have always signed my art C.Rae, even as a child. I'm married to the most wonderful man, who seems to have been predestined to sponser artsy-types! His mother was an accomplished painter, as is his son. I think he married me when he went through paint fumes withdrawal. At least, he's supportive and seems to love my work! This allows me to explore my art and share it with others. I also came from an artistic family. My Mom is a published textile artist and her sister also paints and sells watercolors. In our family, it seems the painting gene is passed aunt to niece.

My home is full of the animals I use for inspiration. Most of them came to us through rescue, and I have worked with several species in rescue. I also volunteer with animal education programs and wildlife rehabilitation. This has enabled me to come in close, personal contact with many different types of wildlife and exotics. Please check out my link to CLAWS, a not-for-profit program, my personal favorite animal education program, and one of my frequent sources for contact with unusual animals. My other interests include costuming, speculative fiction/fantasy conventions, ball-jointed dolls, anime, and children's books.

I currently offer commission pet and exotic animal portraits and original ACEOs. I've completely fallen in love with the ACEO format, 2.5 by 3.5 inch art cards available for trading and selling. They are a fun and exciting way for collectors and artists to share art. They also make great gifts. I am a member of the ATC and ACEO Enthusiasts discussion group, an excellent place to get to know artists, buyers, and information on ACEOs. 

Search ACEO and ATC to find the many listings currently available. There's always something for everyone's tastes.  

Sammy-RIP

My love of animals and my artistic ability seem to be dependent on each other! From an early age, both have been central to who I am. Fortunately, growing up, my parents supported me in both passions. I've always had a variety of pets; birds, dogs, rodents, and livestock. My dream was to have a horse. Since I couldn't have one where we lived, I drew them. My elementary librarian would provide me with anatomy books on horses. Somehow, it seemed I spent more time in the library than in class! I finally did get my own horse as a teenager. About that time, I got my hands on a copy of The White Dragon, by Anne McCaffery. A new love was born. I became an avid Science Fiction/Fantasy reader. Well, of course, I had to draw and paint the images in my head! Dragons and their riders are a favorite subject. Through my art, I was able to join my favorite characters in adventure and perils not of this mundane world. I continued to paint and draw, taking art classes and entering shows. I was a member of the Art Honor Society in High School. In 1985, based on my dragon paintings, I received an art supplies scholarship to Huntingdon College, in Montgomery Alabama, where I was an art major for two years.

I received my BA with a minor in Art from University of South Alabama, Mobile Alabama, in 1991. As an adult, my art consists of portraits of animals, fantasy creatures, and people. I hope you enjoy viewing as much as I do creating it.

My own personal disclaimer:  I paint in my home, surrounded by the animals I love. I enjoy their company, and their inspiration. While I have not had any complaints from previous customers, I do want to be clear that my art is exposed to the animals. You may receive a stray skunk, dog, or cat hair in your envelope. It is their contribution. Thank you for your interest in my art! Please be sure to add me as a Favorite Seller!