Our first baby was Gnocchi, so it comes as absolute zero surprise that all things in our house and life completely revolve around her.
When I was trying to find a gift for Andy a few years ago, I realized it needed to be something special—something that ended up being a gift for all of us. I have always dabbled in the arts, but let’s be honest: I am not talented. I know it when I see it, though. I am forever artist-adjacent. Whether it’s sitting in a pottery class spinning a tragically lopsided cup or painting just-okay canvases, my actual superpower has always been having the eye, finding the thing, and having a vision.
For this project, I had a vision of a realistic, pop-art-ish take on Gnocchi. A large, custom print that we could have furever in our home. I am a massive fan of Ashley Longshore and always love stopping by her store in Soho, but after looking into the custom pricing, I quickly realized Blake Lively’s custom art budget and mine were operating in two entirely different galaxies.
That’s when I got creative and turned to an artist I know and love: Ally O'Brien.
Some of you might remember Ally from my sister’s wedding (she did incredible work for it!), but she truly outdid herself here. In part, because Ally was able to capture the absolute soul of Gnocchi (and all of her funny little features) in the artwork.
The Muse Herself
It’s funny, as I’m writing about this, it’s making me think of my current read, Theo of Golden, and it reminds me of that exact idea: an incredible artist just waiting for their big break.
I’m sharing this today simply because I love supporting talented people when I find them. If this post allows just one person to connect with Ally and get a custom pet portrait companion for life, I'll be thrilled.
Gnocchi wearing one of her signature big floppy bows.
So far, this has hands down been the best gift I have given Andy—even beating out our first son's framed footprints... shhh, don’t tell Henry, lol.
Her tongue is her second best accessory. Wedding Day Ready.
I encourage you to check out Ally's work on Instagram and see all of her incredible pieces, or check out her portfolio here!
While you are at it give Gnocchi a follow too! Gnocchi’s modeling portfolio.
One more for good measure.
