9 Heartwarming Artworks That Show the Power of Human–Pet Companionship
People who share a close bond with their pets know that animals can show some crazy human-like emotions. It’s honestly wild how much they “get” us. This same feeling shows up in a new group art series called “Companions,” created by six talented artists — Lola Dupre, Debra Broz, Roberto Benavidez, Misato Sano, William Mophos, and Nicolas V. Sanchez.
They use all kinds of mediums — ballpoint pen, ceramics, even piñata-style art — to show their connection with animals. And the results? Super imaginative and a little surreal. You’ll see familiar pets like dogs, cats, pigs, and sheep turned into these dreamy, story-like characters. It still feels comforting though, like the pets we love at home. Perfect mix of creativity + emotion.
What makes the series hit even harder is how each artist focuses on the inner world of every animal. It kinda blurs the line between nature and human culture. Their affection for these animals is easy to feel, even in the most realistic pieces. The little touches of anthropomorphism make each pet feel like it has its own personality — which pulls you in emotionally.
It’s basically art that celebrates the human–pet bond, emotional wellness, and that sweet companionship we all crave. Perfect for anyone who loves pets, mental health positivity, and meaningful art.
More info: JoyMachine
#1 Roberto Benavidez, “Medieval Kitten” (2025), paper, paperboard, wire, glue, crepe paper, fallen cat whiskers, 5.5 x 6 x 3 inches
#2 Lola Dupre, “Geordi” (2025), paper collage, 12 x 16 inches
#3 Debra Broz, “Horse Boxer” and “Boxer Horse” (2025), secondhand ceramic figurines and mixed media
#4 Misato Sano, “なるほど！ / Oh, I see!” (2025), camphor wood and oil paint
When you look a little closer at the series, you start noticing how each artist builds their own world around their chosen animal. Some pieces feel dreamy and imaginative, while others lean into realism but still show that emotional spark we all see in our pets. The use of mediums like ceramics, ballpoint pen, and piñata materials adds a fun twist, making every artwork feel fresh and unexpected. You’ll see animals showing expressions we usually connect with humans — curiosity, joy, maybe a little sadness — and that’s what makes the series so relatable. It’s art that speaks to anyone who’s ever felt emotionally connected to a pet.
#5 William Mophos, “Tom Tom” (2025), acrylic painting on wall fragments in an acrylic frame with cement board backing, 16.6 x 21 x 7.5 centimeters
#6 Nicolas V. Sanchez, “First Gen” (2024), colour ballpoint pen on paper in wood frame, 8 x 8 inches
#7 Nicolas V. Sanchez, “Mariana with lambs” (2018), color ballpoint pen on paper, 5.5 x 10.5 inches
#8 Misato Sano, “It was about this big!” (2025), acrylic gouache and walnut ink on drawing paper, 11 × 14 inches (framed)
#9 Debra Broz, left: “White Persian Cat Rabbit,” (2025), secondhand ceramic figurines and mixed media, 4.25 × 5 × 2 inches; right: “White Rabbit Persian Cat,” (2025), secondhand ceramic figurines and mixed media, 5 × 4 × 2.5 inches
The “Companions” art series brings together six artists who all share a deep love for animals. Each one uses their own style and medium to show how strong the human–pet bond can be. You’ll find surreal shapes, warm emotional details, and playful touches that make every piece feel alive. The artworks highlight how pets give us comfort, emotional support, and that quiet kind of companionship that honestly feels like therapy. It’s a soft, creative look at the relationship between humans and animals, shown through art that feels personal and soulful.
