Jenny and her service dog Benny inspire others through their art

“I want my art to inspire people to respect those with disabilities, to help us all treat one another with understanding and compassion.”
Jenny Riddle

Jenny Riddle and her service dog, Benny, are both painters. Since birth Jenny has had a genetic condition called Williams syndrome, which causes medical problems, especially with her heart, and also some processing problems. New and unfamiliar situation can make her nervous and upset.

Three years ago Benny came into her life to help Jenny deal with anxiety. Benny really makes a difference! He calms Jenny down and lifts up her spirits.

Jenny has taken art classes through Friendship Heart Gallery & Studio in Lancaster, PA which offers classes to individuals with intellectual disability and/or autism who are 18 years of age or older.

Jenny loses herself in her art and it brings her immense joy. Two years ago she saw a video online of animals painting, and thought, “Why not teach Benny?” They developed a special handle so he could grip his paintbrush, and with commands like “Push” and “Hold” helped him create more abstract art on his own blank canvas.

Benny follows these two commands when painting: “Push” and “Hold”

Jenny and Benny’s art collection is growing and you can find them at art shows. Benny loves people, which is good, because he always draws a crowd!

I had never met Jenny until our photo session to create images for her marketing brochures and social media content. So I asked her Mom why they chose to work with me. Here are Eileen’s words:

“I met Heike at a women’s business group I belong to. I was impressed with the work she did for others. I was looking for someone that could work with my handicapped daughter and her service dog. Heike seemed like the perfect fit with her demeanor and professionalism.”
Eileen Riddle

After the session I received this special testimonial from Eileen.

The photoshoot took place at Friendship Heart Gallery where Jenny has painting classes. Jenny and Benny felt very comfortable which made for great photos…in fact it was hard not to choose all the photos that were presented. I have worked with other portrait photographers in the past and by far Heike is one of the best. I would highly recommend Heike for your portrait photography.”
Eileen Riddle

I hope you will have the chance to meet Jenny and Benny at an art show in the near future. They are an amazing team and so much fun to watch as they create art together. It was such a privilege to create branding images for Jenny to get her business of selling her art off the ground.

Jenny proudly showing one of her favorite paintings.

Copy writer Carol Cool had interviewed Jenny prior to our photo session to help us understand the type of images needed for her marketing needs. Selections from this interview are integrated into this post. Thanks, Jenny, Eileen, Benny and Carol for this great collaboration!

Great branding happens when we all work together, cut through the overwhelm and get clarity on the type of images needed for either a new project launch, a new website or needed update, much needed content for social media and let’s not forget printed marketing materials like brochures, postcards and business cards. Helping you get clarity is key.

When is the last time you felt seen?

As one of the top headshot and personal branding photographers in Lancaster, PA, I specialize in helping business owners, entrepreneurs and creatives magnetize their brands with intentional, eye-catching images they actually love. It’s an experience that will transform how you see yourself.

I invite you to experience the power of feeling seen, so you can book your dream clients!

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