Turn a photo of your favorite animal companion — be it furry, gilled, hoofed, feathered or scaled — into a beautiful painting by signing up for Customized Pet Portraits, a Steffen Thomas Museum Arts Outreach Program family workshop scheduled for Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Inspired by Steffen Thomas’s numerous animal studies, participants will learn how to capture their pet’s unique spirit and personality in watercolor.

Susan Pelham, a well-known Monroe artist, will teach the workshop.

“I’m truly delighted with this assignment,” Pelham said. “Children and their pets usually enjoy a very special, loving relationship. This bond, combined with a chance for kids to express themselves artistically with color and texture, make for a truly fun experience for youngsters.”

Pelham is a member of the Monroe Art Guild (MAG). She was awarded first place in the mixed media division at MAG’s 14th Annual Winter Show last January.

These special pet portraits can be framed for display at home or used as wonderful gifts for family and friends to treasure. It’s the perfect way to show love and respect for your animal companion.

The museum’s workshop fees are $8 for adults, $6 for children; members receive a $2 discount. Those in financial need may attend free of charge. Reservations are required. Please call (706) 342-7557.

STMA Arts Outreach Program provides family workshops for art enthusiasts of all ages one Saturday a month at the museum. All sessions are scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon.

These programs are supported in part by Grassroots Arts Program of the Georgia Council for the Arts through an appropriation of the Georgia General Assembly in partnership with the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center.

For more information and directions, please visit www.steffenthomas.org or call (706) 342-7557.