What your favorite animal might be telling you, and why you should listen

Have you ever found yourself drawn to a particular animal over and over again? Maybe you’ve always loved owls, or you've discovered that you can't get enough of foxes on mugs, T-shirts, or in your art collection. It might feel like a coincidence, but as an artist that spent 5 years painting and researching spirit animals, I believe there’s more to it.

I’ve come to think of these creatures not just as subjects, but as symbols. They often reflect something we need, something we admire, or something we're growing into. So I thought today we might explore what your favorite animal might be trying to tell you, and how that connection can inspire and guide you.

My painting of a Spirit Fox titled, 'Keeper of the Jade Kingdom'

The Fox: Clever, Curious, Adaptable

If you're drawn to the fox, you might be someone who finds creative ways around obstacles. You value wit, independence, and a little mischief. Fox energy might be reminding you to stay clever and light on your feet, especially when life throws you curveballs.

my painting titled 'Springtide'

The Bear: Strong, Grounded, Protective

Lovers of bears often crave comfort, solitude, or deep rest. Yes, bears symbolize strength, but they also innately understand the need for solitude and quiet. If a bear keeps showing up for you, it could be a reminder to protect your peace or trust your own inner power.

The Owl: Wise, Intuitive, Mysterious

Owls are all about seeing what others miss. They’re quiet observers, intuitive thinkers, and often represent inner knowing. If you're drawn to owls, you might be in a season where you’re craving clarity, reflection, or a deeper sense of purpose.

my mixed media painting of a pair of hares in a garden

The Hare: Gentle, Sensitive, Joyful

Hares/rabbits are gentle creatures who confidently spring forward through life. If hares are speaking to you, they may be reminding you to set your intentions for a positive outcome for any challenges you may be facing.

'Spirit of Raccoon' from my spirit animal series

The Raccoon: Resourceful, Curious, Clever

Raccoons are playful and curious, and excellent problem-solvers. They're often referred to as bandits due to their facial markings, but their disguise is a reminder that we all have the power to develop and grow. If you’re seeing raccoons pop up (besides out of your trash cans), perhaps you're being reminded that you have the power to transform yourself, and to let go of worn and tired masks that no longer serve you.

My painting of a sea turtle from 2024

The Turtle: Patient, Grounded, Wise

If you feel connected to turtles, you might be someone who values inner peace, slow living, and steady progress. Turtles remind us that it’s okay to move at our own pace—and that sometimes, the slowest path is the most meaningful one. They’re symbols of protection, resilience, and ancient wisdom. If a turtle keeps showing up for you, it could be a gentle nudge to slow down and trust the journey.

Why It Matters

These animals aren’t just fun or cute (though they definitely are that); they can also serve as gentle mirrors. They reflect parts of us we may have forgotten, or parts of ourselves we’re growing into.

So the next time you find yourself drawn to a particular creature, don’t brush it off. Instead, ask:

• What qualities do I admire in this animal?

• What part of me feels connected to it?

• What might it be inviting me to remember or explore?

Whether you believe in spirit animals, personal symbolism, or just enjoy the magic of animal stories, it’s a beautiful thing to find yourself reflected in another being—even if it’s one with paws and whiskers.

Art has a way of giving voice to these quiet connections. That’s why I love painting animals; not just for their charm, but for the stories they tell. I hope my work helps you see a bit of yourself in them, too.

So… what animal has been following you around lately?