My Journey

My name is Laura, and I'm a professional artist living and working in Ireland. After escaping the war in my native Ukraine, I arrived in Ireland as a refugee with my son and our beloved Golden Retriever, Rix. While fleeing the conflict, many advised us to leave Rix behind, but for me, that was never an option. I was determined to bring him with us, no matter the challenges. This decision proved to be the best I've ever made, as Rix became not just a pet, but a source of comfort and therapy for my family during our darkest times. The first portrait I painted of him was born out of love and admiration. These experiences sparked a desire to bring that same joy to others through my art, and my journey as a pet portrait artist began.

Beyond dog portraiture, I continue work on other themes and projects. After earning a Master's Degree in Fine Art, my initial focus was on landscape painting, often done en plein air to capture the essence of the moment. Ireland, with its breathtaking scenery, has been a significant inspiration for my work.

Currently, I'm also involved in a project documenting the experiences of Ukrainian refugees, combining text and visuals in a diary format, slated for exhibition in 2024. One painting from this series was chosen for the 194th RHA Annual Exhibition.

Despite the challenges, I've remained steadfast in pursuing my dream as an artist. When we arrived in Ireland two years ago, all we possessed were two bags—one filled with dog food, and the other with art supplies. Despite the doubts of many who claim survival as an artist is impossible, here I am, determined to see my dream through. And while on that path, I vow to continue using my energy and dedication to spread joy and happiness within our community of dog and art lovers. It's not merely a commercial endeavor for me; it's a mission to promote and celebrate the unconditional love, loyalty, and dedication exemplified by dogs. My aim is to bring joy and smiles into the homes of dog owners, fostering a cycle of happiness between owners and their beloved pets!

You can read more about my journey  in the following articles:

Link to the book with my artworks included:



Artist Bio

Laura Medvedieva is an artist from Ukraine who has arrived in Ireland to seek refuge following the war in her homeland.

Transitioning to art after a career change in 2017, Laura entered Art College and earned a Master's Degree in Fine Arts. Her work blends photorealistic elements with classical painting approaches. 

Laura's paintings have been exhibited in Ukraine at Korners Auction House  (2019), ARS Kerylos gallery (2019), Lobortas Classic Jewellery House (2020), Central House of Artists (2020) and the National Academy of Fine Arts (2021).

Since arriving in Ireland in March 2022 she has participated in the "Artists for Ukraine" exhibition in Rush, County Dublin (April 2022); JACI Ukraine Welcoming Gathering event (October 2022), Dublin; two of her artworks were chosen for publication in the book project “The Artist’s eye on Kerry” (March 2023). In September 2023 Laura had an exhibition in collaboration with two other artists in Red Stables, Dublin. Currently, she is working on a project with personal significance, reflecting her journey as a Ukrainian refugee. Her painting ‘Artem’ was selected for the 194th RHA Annuall Exhibition (May - August 2024). When escaping the war, she found solace in her own dog, inspiring her to celebrate life and embark on a new dimension in her artistic expression through dog portraits.