Born and raised in Leipzig, Germany, Antje Reitler is an artist drawn to capturing the beauty, spirit and joy of animals. Her path began early, with drawings shown in school exhibitions, before she devoted many years to working with animals and in animal rescue, both in Germany and Canada.

A decade ago, her focus turned to animal portraiture, primarily in pastel. She taught painting courses to children and adults, held several solo exhibitions in the Leipzig region and was featured in local newspapers. But a search for new means of expression, paired with a growing interest in mixed media and oil painting, led her to study at Milan Art Institute.

Her recent work embraces a vibrant, abstract realist style, portraying animals as free, happy or curious beings. Her vision is to reveal what is easily overlooked: reflections of beauty, simple joy and connection.

„People often tell me they can´t help but smile or that my paintings lift their mood - that´s exactly what I strive for“ she says. „One of my favourit compliments, was when someone told me my painting, Amber Evening Watcher was ´the best she´d ever seen a squirrel look´. That is what I´m trying to do - show the beauty in every creature, no matter how small.“

Looking ahead, Antje plans to take her atelier on the road, traveling through Europe to gather new experiences that will enrich her painting.