Judy Leasure: I love the challenge of painting animals—of capturing their spirit and personality. Whenever I paint, I am captivated by how the careful use of color and value can create a realistic rendering of three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional surface.

My work is done in pastels. Working in pastels is an organic experience. Nothing gets between me and my painting. The pastel stick becomes an extension of my fingers. The colors are rich, pure and stable.

Working in a representational style works best for me as I focus on animals, still life, and florals.