Animal-themed artwork can bring character to any space—whether it’s a majestic horse in a sweeping landscape or an intimate pet portrait.
Our ever-expanding collection highlights the work of talented contemporary painters who skilfully capture various subjects, from wildlife to beloved companions like dogs and cats.
Animal art has the unique ability to stir emotions and reflect personality. Explore our collection of bird artworks to find pieces that evoke everything from curiosity to tranquillity.
A Historical Perspective on Animal Paintings
Animal paintings have long been significant in the history of art, often symbolising power and nature. In the 19th century, animals, such as horses and birds, were used in Impressionist artworks by artists like Edgar Degas, to convey a fleeting sense of movement. Their loose, expressive brushstrokes transformed animal depictions, capturing their energy and presence in dynamic, vibrant ways. Wildlife art flourished during this period, while custom pet portraits also became popular, offering personal depictions of beloved animals in intimate settings.
Surrealism brought with it a new, allegorical interpretation of animals. Salvador Dalí, for example, incorporated distorted animal figures into his works, blending reality with imagination. Through this, animals became more than natural subjects—they evolved into symbols exploring the human subconscious. Some rare prints of Dalí’s equine works are available on Rise Art, such as Le Cheval s'étant voulu venger du cerf (1794).
Discover Talented Animal Artists
Explore striking wildlife paintings by contemporary artists. German painter Rudolf Kosow, for example, creates mysterious, dreamlike oil paintings which subvert the traditional of pet portraiture. The Innocent (2024), places a black labrador behind police tape, creating a dark but whimsical cinematic narrative.
Inspired by the history of colonialism, British artist Ben Stephenson is renowned for his vivid compositions featuring wild animals. In Nocturne (2024), a black panther gazes out from dense, vibrant foliage, evoking thought-provoking themes of exoticism and voyeurism.
Mixed-media painter Chao Wang uses her illustrative style to explore the relationship between biology and technology. Fusing insect bodies with cogs and machinery, such as in Arcan Whispers in the Grove (2024), Wang creates fantastical worlds where reality merges with invention.
Why Animal Paintings Make a Perfect Addition to Your Home
Animal paintings infuse warmth and personality into any interior. From dynamic wildlife scenes to endearing pet portraits, these artworks complement a range of styles, from rustic to contemporary. Iconic motifs, such as horses and birds, lend timeless elegance to a space while reflecting a deep appreciation for nature and its creatures.
