Beyond ordinary.
The Vision
Art can do more than inspire. It can heal, uplift, and give back. Bark & Bloom's vision is rooted in compassion: every brushstroke, every purchase, directly supports veterinary clinics and animal rescues across the country. By channeling creativity into purpose, Alex aims to build a community where animals receive the care they deserve, and art becomes a force for good. She's not just painting portraits; she's painting a better future for animals and the people who love them.
The Process
Whether it's a tribute to a beloved companion or a gift for someone special, each painting is created with deep care and gratitude.
The Inspiration
Representation
Each portrait begins with clear, well-lit photos submitted by the client. These photos are the heart of the piece, capturing the unique spirit of the subject. The more photos that are submitted, the better. This allows a true likeness to be captured within the caricature.
The Foundation
Capturing basics
From there, an outline is sketched that lays the foundation for the final art piece. Alex works primarily in acrylics, a medium that allows her to move quickly and intuitively.
The Details
Finalizing a Likeness
Then, Alex focuses on layering in details, and blending colors with precision and speed, bringing each subject to life with expressive brushwork.
The Result
Ready to Frame
Once complete, the work is matted for a polished, gallery-ready finish. Every piece is carefully wrapped in cellophane and tucked into a charming bag, ready to ship with love. From submission to delivery, the entire experience feels personal, joyful, and heartfelt.
Behind the Bark & Bloom Brush
Committed to human creation
Alex prides herself on commitment to physical mediums only and takes a stand against the use of A.I. in the art space. Every painting is unique, crafted in the real world, using age-old techniques.
Transforming spaces with meaning
The walls of veterinary practices should be filled with animal portraits that tell a story. This art isn't just for decoration. Each portrait is a daily reminder of the joy, resilience, and unconditional love that fuel the veterinary profession. A veterinary team should be surrounded by images that are deeply connected to the mission of healing. Alex's art celebrates the bond between caregiver and creature, turning every hallway into a gallery of gratitude.
Alex is currently working to build a gallery wall for Andover Animal Hospital. Due to this, gallery wall books are closed (for now).
Art with a mission
75% of all proceeds benefit the following rescues (list subject to change based on need):
Growing steadily from humble beginnings
Thank you for your patience as I work to build out my portfolio and achieve my dream of helping those in need. As time goes on, I will add more products for purchase, such as art prints and/or clothing.
About Alex
Bark & Bloom was born the night a fragile little cream Frenchie named Dumpling toddled through the doors of Andover Animal Hospital. Emaciated and silent, she had been found abandoned on the side of the road and brought in by a kind-hearted stranger. As a veterinary technician on duty, Alex felt an instant connection. She knew Dumpling needed more than medical care—she needed someone to fight for her. Alex offered to foster her, promising to be her forever home if no one came forward.
Dumpling was so ill she couldn’t even bark. But over the months, she transformed. Today, she’s a 26-pound powerhouse who barks at everything that moves. Her resilience, spirit, and sass inspired the name Bark & Bloom—a tribute to healing, growth, and the fierce love that animals bring into our lives. Dumpling remains Alex’s greatest challenge and most cherished muse, reminding her daily why she creates: to honor the strength of every dog and support the people who care for them.
Alex cares for two other four-legged kids at home. Fenway, her heart dog, is a 12y/o Boston Terrier, who was rescued from a hoarding house in Columbus, OH, in 2014. Fenway is Sean Connery in dog form. Wallace, a 5 y/o Frenchie, escaped a neglectful home in Worcester, MA. 'Wally' is a lolloping lump of joy!
By day, Alex leads as a business director, and by night (and heart), she's a dedicated veterinary technician and lifelong artist. Between managing teams and caring for animals, she carves out time to paint - channeling her creativity into pieces that directly support rescues and veterinary clinics. Bark & Bloom marks a new chapter: one where passion meets purpose.
"To the incredible community of fosters, donors, and veterinary professionals,
There are no words strong enough to express the depth of my gratitude for all that you do.
Your compassion, your tireless dedication, and your unwavering belief in second chances are the heartbeat of every rescue story. You show up—day after day—with open arms, skilled hands, and generous hearts, and because of you, lives are not only saved but transformed.
I see your impact everywhere. In the eyes of a dog who finally knows safety. In the quiet strength of a vet tech comforting a patient. In the selfless act of a foster giving love without condition. In every donation that fuels hope.
You inspire me endlessly. You make me want to do more, give more, create more. Thank you for being the kind of people who remind the world what kindness looks like in action. I am honored to support your work, and I carry your spirit in everything I do."
-Alex Zajac (Bark & Bloom)
"The detail of this painting is incredible. His eyes look wet. Wow."
Patrick Young
"I actually can't get over this painting. OMG thank you. Are you kidding me?! You were able to capture Josie's soul in her eyes!!! "
Mechela Carnevale
"We're raving about Guava's portrait! We gave it to Joe last night and he was so in love!"
Riley Townsend