Group Of Artists Depict Human Companionship With Pets In These 9 Artworks

People who share close bonds with their pets recognise the almost human-like emotional expressions animals can display. This kinship between man and individual animals is brought to life by six artists, Lola Dupre, Debra Broz, Roberto Benavidez, Misato Sano, William Mophos, and Nicolas V. Sanchez, in their latest group effort art series, "Companions". These artists use diverse mediums, such as ballpoint pen, ceramics, and piñata to portray their kinship with animals. The resulting artworks render familiar domestic animals like dogs, cats, pigs, and sheep in surreal, imaginative ways. Each piece radiates a wondrous quality, even as it draws on the comforting familiarity of beloved pets. By focusing on each animal’s inner world, the artists bridge the divide between nature and culture. The affection inherent in their depictions is unmistakable, with even the most realistic pieces expressing emotions we often attribute to humans. The use of anthropomorphism here serves to emphasise the personality of each animal, allowing viewers to connect with them on an empathetic level. More info: JoyMachine

#1 Roberto Benavidez, “Medieval Kitten” (2025), paper, paperboard, wire, glue, crepe paper, fallen cat whiskers, 5.5 x 6 x 3 inches

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#2 Lola Dupre, “Geordi” (2025), paper collage, 12 x 16 inches

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#3 Debra Broz, “Horse Boxer” and “Boxer Horse” (2025), secondhand ceramic figurines and mixed media

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#4 Misato Sano, “なるほど！ /  Oh, I see!” (2025), camphor wood and oil paint

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#5 William Mophos, “Tom Tom” (2025), acrylic painting on wall fragments in an acrylic frame with cement board backing, 16.6 x 21 x 7.5 centimeters

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#6 Nicolas V. Sanchez, “First Gen” (2024), colour ballpoint pen on paper in wood frame, 8 x 8 inches

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#7 Nicolas V. Sanchez, “Mariana with lambs” (2018), color ballpoint pen on paper, 5.5 x 10.5 inches

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#8 Misato Sano, “It was about this big!” (2025), acrylic gouache and walnut ink on drawing paper, 11 × 14 inches (framed)

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#9 Debra Broz, left: “White Persian Cat Rabbit,” (2025), secondhand ceramic figurines and mixed media, 4.25 × 5 × 2 inches; right: “White Rabbit Persian Cat,” (2025), secondhand ceramic figurines and mixed media, 5 × 4 × 2.5 inches

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