Carole Tormey Jones works on a painting in her studio.


A love of animals The artist lives in solitude in rural Marion County, but


feels comfort in a country home she says remains a work in progress. A gravel road leads to her house in the woods. It also serves as home to five cats. Growing up around animals, Jones enjoys the company of a pet. She works at her drawing desk in the center of a spare room, surround- ed by former works and stuffed animals: otters, cats, bears. Her latest project, however, is focused on illustrat- ing another critter: the ferret. “I’ve been into this ferret book I’m about to do called


From Portly to Perfect: 10 Exercises for Overweight Ferrets,” Jones said. “My friend, Dana, who does all of the recipes in my book, she’s going to put in some recipes for kids to eat that will keep them fit, and we’re going to put a coloring book in the back.” Her son, Tommy, kept the ferret that came into her life. She looked after the pet while her son served in the Air Force. Her mind races with ideas, she says. The Bull Shoals


This was the inspiration for the Cotter Otter. 8 Living Well i February/March 2015


Bear, Flippin Bass, Jasper Elk, Princess Paisley the cat and Bizzy Bee the ferret are among some of Jones’ whimsical creations. Every animal has a story, and some are featured in children’s books today. Princess Paisley, a black-and-white cat, lived with


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