Gracie's Place: Art, Disability, and the Power of Pet Portraits
Author: Marcella (Marcy) Hernandez
Published: 2019/09/18 - Updated: 2025/05/21
Publication Type: Informative
Category Topic: Disability Art and Artists - Academic Publications
Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main - Insights, Updates
Synopsis: This article provides an overview of Gracie's Place Art Studio, founded by Marcella (Marcy) Hernandez, an artist who overcame childhood polio and later dedicated her career to supporting people with disabilities. The studio, named after her rescued cat Grace, began with nature-inspired art and has since become known for deeply personal pet portraits that capture not just the likeness but also the personality of each animal - examples include touching stories such as Chance, a rescued cat, and Samson, an Akita memorialized after passing.
Marcy's journey is especially relevant to seniors and people with disabilities, as she demonstrates how creative pursuits can offer both emotional fulfillment and a sense of purpose, regardless of physical challenges. Her work with The International Association of Artists With Disabilities further highlights her commitment to showcasing the talents of artists living with disabilities, providing a supportive community and platform for creative expression.
The information is authoritative and useful, as it comes directly from Marcy's lived experience and her ongoing advocacy, offering inspiration and practical encouragement to anyone facing barriers, whether they are aspiring artists, pet lovers, or individuals seeking meaningful engagement later in life - Disabled World (DW).
Introduction
Gracie's Place Art History
Named in honor of her shelter-rescued cat, named Grace, Marcella (Marcy) founded Gracie's Place Art Studio earlier this year. What began primarily as nature art, has also blossomed into a popular pet portrait art studio for pet owners who adore their pets.
Main Content
Marcy grew up in Arkansas, and then moved with her family to California, after she was stricken with Polio at the age of three. Her interest in art began later in childhood with a desert scene she had painted being exhibited by her school at the California Science Center in Exposition Park, Los Angeles. After she later married, her first painting as an adult, titled "America", featured a Bald Eagle in front of the American flag, blowing in the wind. "America" was purchased by an Executive at the Burbank Studios. Marcy sold her first painting!
Her second painting, "African Lion," featured a portrait of a Lion in front of an African plain. This painting was a gift for a friend. Both paintings, along with her most recent works, may be viewed at Gracie's Place Art Gallery.
Marcy's career took first priority throughout the years however, and she laid aside her paintbrush to help others with disabilities at a non-profit organization, The Independent Living Center of Southern California (ILCSC). This organization assists persons of all ages and disabilities to live independently in their community.
Recently, she has taken up her paintbrush again painting pet portraits, in addition to nature art. Her art seems to capture not only the image of the animals, but also their personalities. Some pet owners have been moved to tears of joy when viewing a portrait of their pet for the first time.
International Association of Artists Living With Disabilities
Marcy has just begun a new association, which combines both her interests in art and disabilities. The International Association of Artists With Disabilities (IAAWD). The IAAWD Mission Statement: "To Promote and Showcase the Talents of Artists Living with Disabilities." After only a few weeks, the Membership is growing rapidly.
Gracie's Place Art
Featured below are a few examples of Marcy's artwork.
Portrait of Betsy
Betsy is a beloved family pet. A Beagle. Her owner says that the portrait is "true to her image and personality."
Portrait of Chance
Pencil art drawing. Chance was rescued, after being shot in the face and found emaciated and unable to eat. He is now a beautiful and happy cat, living with his loving family. His owner was moved to tears when she first saw this portrait.
Portrait of Chopper
Pencil art drawing. Chopper is a Cocker Spaniel, a beloved family pet.
Portrait of Molly
Pencil art drawing. Molly is a Chihuahua mix, and beloved family pet.
Portrait of Samson
Pencil art drawing. Samson, an Akita and beloved family pet. Although Samson is gone now, his portrait serves as a memorial to his memory.
Cheetah Portrait
Pencil art drawing. Nature portrait of a rare Albino Cheetah.
Artist Statement
Marcy would like to share with you a quote that has given her inspiration and motivation:
"There is no passion to be found in playing small - in settling for a life that is less than the one you are capable of living." - Nelson Mandela.
She hopes that her story will encourage others with, and without disabilities to follow their own personal dreams, whether it be in art, music, writing, acting, or anything else that they love. Her statement below expresses the feelings that motivate her in the realm of art.
"I am fascinated by the intricate patterns of nature and the "Golden Ratio" of nature, the markings on a Tiger, a Butterfly's wings, Seashells, Aquatic life, etc. Painting these subjects has given me a new respect for the Force behind nature, "Who" created the patterns, colors and myriad of animals existing in our world, both on land and under the sea. I enjoy not only conveying the images of these animals, but also their personalities as well. I hope that you too will appreciate these things even more by viewing my paintings and drawings." - Marcy.
Follow her on Twitter! @GraciesPlaceArt and @IAAWD