The Artwork

Wildlife and Portraiture in Mixed Media

Portrait Studies in Acrylic, Charcoal, and Pastel

Grounded in a biologist’s eye and with a deep respect for people, animals, and our shared space in the natural world, Katie O’Brien’s portraiture studies connections between people and animals and between what we see and what we feel. Her work is drawn from lived experience and field observation, and honors light, form, and a lived spirit.

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"THE INNOCENTS"

Caretaker & Gorilla Artwork

In her powerful body of work The Innocents, Katie O’Brien explores themes of resilience, spirit, and the beauty of nature. Visually lush yet unpretentious, the series stands as both a dedication to the mountain gorillas of Rwanda and a salute to the enduring strength of those affected by the 1994 Rwandan genocide. These portraits examine the gorillas who embody presence and grace, and the people who protect them at great personal risk. 


Katie O’Brien has worked closely with Partners in Conservation, an initiative founded in 1991 at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to support programs that benefit both the people and gorillas of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 


Her ongoing relationship with this group and ongoing conservation efforts underscores her belief that conservation and art share a common purpose: to connect us through empathy and understanding.

The WildS

Wildlife Art

The Wilds continues Katie O’Brien’s exploration of animals in their natural states—untamed, self-possessed, and integral to the ecosystems that shape them.


Her portraits of American bison and other wildlife examine the tension between the buffalo’s spirit or endurance and their fragility, which was caused by a lack of protection. 

This series supports the collaboration between The Wilds and the Columbus Zoo’s North American Center for Bison Conservation, a program dedicated to protecting and restoring native grasslands and the American bison through responsible breeding, research, and public education.


Rooted in her history of conservation, this body of work reflects Katie O’Brien’s ongoing commitment to how art can bear witness to the forces that define our shared environment.


More images to come in 2026!

Equine

Horse Portraiture

“My experience with horses began when my daughter started riding at age six. Being a "late bloomer" myself, I got on a horse for the first time in my forties. Instantly, I was in awe of the power of these 1000 pound plus prey animals and their ability and willingness to forge a relationship. At its best, this can turn to trust.  


Exquisitely sensitive animals, I have witnessed the same horse "teach" two different people entirely different lessons — each reflecting what that person most needed to learn. If we truly listen and learn from them, an amazing trusting partnership occurs.”

-Katie O’Brien


Through equine portraits, Katie O’Brien communicates the fascination and respect she has for these amazing creatures— their strength, vulnerability, and the quiet communication that builds trust between horse and human.

Companion Animals

Kentucky Pet Portraiture

Katie O’Brien’s canine and pet artwork reflects the true gift that animals are to people. From working dogs to beloved companions, they enrich our lives every day.


“In the chaotic anxiety filled world that surrounds us, the value of living in the "now" is a gift they give us if we slow down enough to tune into it.”

-Katie O’Brien

PORTRAITs

From Top Kentucky Portrait Artist

Whether human or animal, each subject carries its own story and connection; Katie O’Brien translates that into form by capturing a moment in time. 

 


“My hope is that every portrait I do catches the spirit of that individual. My goal is to capture a moment in time to freeze the essence of a person in a moment.”

- Katie O’Brien


Every Katie O’Brien portrait begins with studying how light and shadow defines shape. She uses mixed media to reveals the subject’s true character through body language and expression.

Inquire About Commissions or Curation

Each piece is created in her Kentucky studio, with commissions accepted for wildlife, equine, canine, and portrait subjects. Katie O’Brien original pieces and limited-edition prints are available for exhibition and acquisition.


For those interested in commission as well as collectors, gallerists, or conservation organizations interested in partnership, please complete the inquiry form below. Katie personally reviews each inquiry and responds with availability, portfolio access, and additional materials upon request.

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