My name is Andrea Goldberg and I am from Circle Pines, Minnesota. I graduated from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design in 2013 with a BFA in photography. When I am not taking photos, paper- cutting or creating art, I enjoy being outdoors, playing soccer, and spending time with my two cats Bitta and Ollie.
As a somewhat awkward human, I’ve always felt a stronger sense of connection to animals than to people. I’m a pet lover down to my core. And, I express my passion and compassion for animals through my art. I’ve been drawing animals ever since I was really young. I find them completely fascinating and beautiful. I’ll never forget the look on the face of my first “customer” (okay, it was my dad) when I showed him the portrait I created of his beloved Chris the Cat. I’ve learned a thing or two along the way as I’ve honed my craft. But, what hasn’t changed is my love for animals and the joy I get from memorializing them for my customers in my art. I see animals as unique beings, so I want to capture their individual personalities and looks. By the way, I can also do simpler (yes, less-expensive) illustrations, but the papercuts are so special and will be a lasting tribute to your pet. I must confess: I don't have kids. I have pets. My pets are my kids. I’ve been told (in fact by someone with kids) that the love that I show for my cats is what parents feel for their children (that’s how obsessed/ involved/ attentive I am with my cats).
By the way, there are some pretty cool websites out there that can manufacture a passable facsimile of a pet portrait through their software. Despite being a Millennial, I’m “old school” when it comes to my art. Each piece I create is one-of-kind, reflecting my passion to capture your love for your pet. No computers allowed! Come to think of it, maybe I was a proud and happy cat, dog, or horse in a past life. Or I just wish I were a cat. Or maybe a dog. After all, dog beds are comfy.