5 Questions With Holly Simental
iCanvas artist Holly Simental’s portfolio of endearing animal illustrations has captured the hearts of art and animal lovers everywhere. Taking immense care to observe and recreate the details and human-like expressions of her animal subjects, and even including hidden spiritual messages, the end result never ceases to leave us smiling. We’re proud to offer their work on iCanvas and wanted to take a minute to introduce you to the human behind the art.
Keep reading to get a taste of what inspires their work, the style of music they create to, and other artists they appreciate. You might be surprised to learn what you have in common!
Who are 5 of your current favorite artists, living or dead?
Vincent van Gogh, Frank Dicksee, Norman Rockwell, David Hockney, Leonardo Da Vinci.
“Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear, 1889” by Vincent van Gogh 
“The Two Crowns, 1900” by Sir Frank Dicksee 
“Freedom of Speech, 1943” by Norman Rockwell 
“A Bigger Splash, 1967” by David Hockney 
“Portrait de femme” by Leonardo Da Vinci
What band or musician would you listen to while creating your art?
I love music but often listen to audiobooks while painting.
If you could master any other form of creative expression, what would it be?
I would love to be a great musician!
What is one person, one place, and one object that inspires you?
One person, my grandmother Violet Harter. One place, the forest empty of humans in winter backcountry skiing. One object, a perfect rose.
What is something about you that others may be surprised to learn?
I work as a full-time registered nurse on night shift and paint when I have time off.
(Wow — thanks for all you do, Holly!)
Check out some of Holly Simental’s creations below, and click here to view their full iCanvas collection.
