In her newest body of work, Unconditional, Emily Persic introduces viewers to an eclectic group of pets and their owners, featuring the unique, heartwarming relationship between animals and humans.

A gifted photographer, Emily Persic has been capturing the world around her for decades. She often uses the lens of her camera to explore the simple, ordinary gifts of life: family, friends, her neighborhood, and her garden. She prefers her photos not be merely static shots of a single moment but images that invite the viewer into a rich, captivating story. For this show, she focuses on the connection between animals and humans.

In the lush side garden of a historic home, two fluffy and rambunctious dogs crowd around their owner Gretchen, mouths open wide with energy and anticipation. Laughing at their excitement, Gretchen holds her closed fist slightly above the dogs’ heads, playfully concealing a treat from their eyes but not their noses. In Unconditional, Persic captures a wide variety of pets, from dogs and cats to chickens and even snakes. Many shots feature the outdoors, taking place against the backdrop of a wild and vibrant garden or in the middle of a multitude of potted plants. Each photo has the natural feel of a candid shot and records a beautifully ordinary moment in the lives of pets and owners. Some subjects don’t even acknowledge the camera. With an eye for beauty and authenticity, Persic faithfully captures each scene and lets her subjects shine naturally.

Throughout the show, Persic spotlights the personality of each animal and explores the unique connection between animal and human. A pet owner herself, Persic shares her home with cats and a Bernese mountain dog. Persic recalls a memorable literature professor who once talked about pets in fiction. He emphasized how on our darkest, most difficult days, our animal companions can be the ones who help keep us going. Pets love and need us each and every day, showing a moving and unconditional trust. Persic clearly captures this heartwarming and impactful relationship in her photographs. In her show Unconditional, Persic reminds us of the unceasing love and companionship of pets and the relationships that sustain us through struggles.