Haylie Brito

Hi there! I adore animals and art. I’m 22 years old, and based in Pittsburgh, PA where I am currently studying to become an art therapist.

I started Brito Pet Portraits one year ago after a friend of mine saw me doodling at work. Originally from Florida, I found myself increasingly bored at home. Growing up, I have always loved to create; however, I always felt discouraged from drawing and painting. I didn’t feel like I was good enough. I thought, “well if other people can do it better than me, what’s the point?” The point is… it’s fun and healing! While reading online, I found that the best way to start doing art (or in my case, again) was to make sure you liked what you were creating in the first place.

I started to bring my colored pencils with me at my job and drew squirrels, bunnies, and raccoons (my favorite). This friend asked if he could commission me to draw Bennett, his girlfriend’s sweet bernese mountain dog. I had never thought to sell my own work before, but shortly after sharing my first portrait of Bennett, I figured I could open commissions to help me pay for my education!

There is nothing that brings me more joy than 1. looking at an animal for long periods of time, 2. creating art, and 3. being able to make someone happy.

Thank you for your trust!