My Story...

I, Karen Morrill, began my journey in the wonderful world of purebred dogs at a very young age. My Mother, who is a fabulous and incredibly knowledgeable lady, bred, raised and exhibited some of the finest Standard Poodles in the country. Not only did being around this wonderful breed teach me a phenomenal amount about beauty and style, I have learned that these things, as well as elegance and type,  are something that takes a great deal of knowledge and research to achieve in any breeding program. With my Mother's wisdom, my strong desire to learn, and my deep love for all  animals, I set out to follow in her footsteps. There was only one problem.  As much as I loved the Standard Poodles, my real passion (at that time) was with the German Shepherd Dog. I wanted grace, elegance and style in a very different package.     As a child, I attended many confirmation shows across our country and spent most of the time taking pictures of every German Shepherd I could find. There began my love affair with the breed.     I purchased my first Shepherd in 1990 and then stumbled across Brentaryl German Shepherds. An exquisite dog named Gunner had caught my eye. I then began to research the health and genetics pertaining to the Brentaryl lines and my prayers were answered. I knew that I had found a foundation that I could build upon and be proud of for many years to come. 

I bred and exhibited German Shepherds for several years....and then life changed. 

The next chapter began...

THE  AFGHAN HOUND....and my childhood love....THE STANDARD POODLE.

And so the story continues...

My  view on breed preservation.....We  are the guardians of these breeds.

We must maintain and pursue with the realization that there is no weight heavier than that of the new born puppy that carries with it all of the results of our genetic decisions. 

I feel that it is far more important to maintain a solid and sound foundation than to pursue a succession of hollow victories. Armed with knowledge, but realizing there is always something new to be learned, we are never fearful of following a gut instinct as we will only progress by attempt. We treat them as what they truly are, an opportunity to grow and improve. 

Inspiration that doesn't bear fruit is still a valuable source of data on which to draw. To my dogs, past and present, I honor you....The name 'Visual Art' was inspired by these wonderful creatures, as to me, that is what they are....