About Kuma Paints

Kuma Paints started with my best friend: a long-haired German shepherd who flunked out of police dog training.

Kuma came into my life to become a service dog, and he did that work for a while. But between his health sensitivities and realizing he mostly just wanted to be near me, I decided being my companion was enough. Having health challenges myself, I understood.

He’s been beside me for six years now. He’s warm, goofy, sensitive, and very clear about what he wants. Usually my pizza, his ball, or his spot on the couch back.

I started painting him because I thought he was beautiful. His long fur and “feathers” reminded me of brushstrokes. His eyes were what kept me trying. The warmth, the brightness, the way I could tell what he was feeling.

I wanted to paint the feeling of knowing him.

That’s what I hope to capture in other animals, too. A familiar look in the eyes or expression that makes someone think, “That’s mine.” Not just the right breed or markings. Their particular little somebody.

He’s getting older, and I’m painting more gray into his fur these days. It scares me, honestly. But I treasure getting to notice him this closely.

My mom gave me the paint-by-numbers kits that got me started. I’d always loved arts and crafts but didn’t feel good enough to make my own work. So I practiced. Eventually, I started following my own ideas: animals, fun colors, and whimsical scenes where you can imagine a whole world inside the picture.

I’m still learning. This is where I share that progress and the things I love making. I hope something here feels familiar or just makes you happy to look at.