Check Out Sarah Shearer’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Shearer. 

Hi Sarah, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
It started with a love of art… owner and founder of Painted Paw Studio, Sarah Shearer, received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from Belhaven College in 1995 and relocated to Nashville, TN in 2000. 

Working primarily as a painter, Shearer began incorporating her passion for animals into her creative business when she saw the joyful impact this work had. 

She’s since turned it into a love project for animals… 

As a fur mom of two handsome rescue pit mixes and one unimpressed cat, Shearer quickly connects with people on the meaningful bond we share with our fur babies. 

In addition to creating pet-centric art, Sarah also gives back to pets in need. Puppy Up, Pet Community Center, Crossroads, and Agape are among the animal welfare non-profits she supports by donating a percentage of sales or sponsorship backing at special events. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’m coming up on the 4-year anniversary of Painted Paw Studio, a business homegrown in the heart of Nashville. I started this little biz not really knowing much about bookkeeping, taxes, website management, packaging, and many more functions required to bring the party to life. I just wanted to do something I was passionate about and see what would happen. Some days I still feel like I don’t know what I’m doing, ha! But most days I just feel overwhelmed with gratitude. Most of all I’m thankful for having a partner and community who believe in me! ⠀⠀ 

Many times, in my past I’ve felt unsure of myself, and my career path. I doubt I’ll ever be 100% free from self-doubt, but this seems right. I still have so much growing to do though. I strive to improve my skill and processes every day. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a solopreneur- but I wouldn’t trade this for the world. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Ever since I can remember I’ve been obsessed with art. Coloring with crayons as a kid turned into learning to use oil paints and watercolors as a teenager which eventually led to majoring in art in college. Painting was my college focus. For years following I dabbled in a variety of subjects ranging from the human figure to abstracts. As a lifelong animal lover- who briefly envisioned being a veterinarian- niching down into pet portraiture was a natural progression! My work is immediately recognized by the personality captured in my subject’s eyes. 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey as an artist is to understand rejection is not personal. Creating artwork is a very personal practice for me, so this didn’t come easily. I’ve learned to appreciate that my style of work is not for everyone and that is not necessarily good or bad. There are many talented artists out there. We all have different styles, and I believe there is an audience for each of us! 

Pricing:

• 55- mini pet portraits
• 125- small watercolor portraits
• 199- medium watercolor portraits
• 275- large watercolor portraits

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://www.paintedpawstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paintedpawstudio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paintedpawstudio
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEg4RTsxEUdGl44m_jdbQrA

Image Credits
Sarah Shearer