We had the good fortune of connecting with Joey Torrescano and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joey, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
There’s 2 things I’ve always been passionate about: dogs and art. Naturally, I got a job as a kennel assistant at a local doggy daycare in 2018. My focus shifted into painting watercolor portraits of the dogs I worked with every day. With the support of my friends, family, and even my bosses at the daycare, I began selling dog portraits as a side gig. 4 years and several commissions later, I decided to start a business making dog-themed merchandise and custom pet portraits called Pawchi Pups.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I started drawing and painting dogs, turning it into a business was the last thing on my mind. It was part of my healing journey as I dealt with grief, anxiety, and depression. When I got my first commissions, it became about something bigger than my own struggles. My portraits helped people cope with the pain that comes with losing their beloved dog. Painting dogs, especially memorial portraits, is a very emotional process for me. Even when I get commissions to paint a dog I’ve never met, I feel the bond between the pet parent and their fur baby just by looking at a photo. The goal is to help bring back happy memories and spread love and positivity to those that love dogs just as much as I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite places to eat is a small Japanese cafe called Tampopo on Greenville Ave. Their Beef Udon is delicious and the staff always greets me with a smile. Definitely the first stop on our journey.

The Dallas World Aquarium and Dallas Zoo would also be next on the list. Can’t think of a better place to hang out than a place full of interesting animals and opportunities for great conversations. I always learn something new each time I visit.

Lunch at Lazy Dog in Addison would definitely be on the list. They’re a dog-friendly restaurant and honestly what’s better than a flight of mimosas with a side of dog watching?

I’d also take my friend to see a NITE show. They’re a local synth-pop band and they regularly play shows in the Dallas-are like Ruins, Amplified Live, and other great venues. They’re super nice guys and take time to get to know their fans. I recommend checking them out on Spotify.

I’m not a great person to go clubbing with unfortunately but I would book a Thursday Night at the Perot museum. Drinks and dinosaurs? Yes, please!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I would like to give a big shoutout to my partner, James. He has been my biggest supporter and has helped guide me through the process of setting up my business since Day 1.

I’d like to thank Lisa Jones and all the wonderful people from Barking Hound Village Texas. Working there changed my life and I wouldn’t be where I am without their support.

My friends from the DFW Illustration Community deserve a shoutout, too. Thank you for inspiring me to continue to make art and being so supportive of my work.

Can’t forget to mention my family. Their love and guidance has helped me through difficult times and I hope to make them proud every day. The name for business is actually inspired by my grandma, who we lovingly call Pachi.

Last but not least, I’d like to thank all of my dog friends. They’ve shown me what unconditional love is and there is a special place in my heart for each one of them.

Website: pawchipups.carrd.co

Instagram: @pawchipups

Twitter: @pawchipups

Facebook: Pawchi Pups

Other: www.etsy.com/shop/PawchiPups

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