Alpaca Shepherdess: Portrait

The Shepherdess – Hofner Inspired Needle Felted Fiber Portrait

Inspired by Johann Baptist Hofner’s idyllic rural scenes, The Shepherdess brings pastoral beauty into the world of fiber art. Crafted entirely from hand-painted alpaca fibers, this portrait transforms Hofner’s romantic vision of country life into a textured, three-dimensional work that celebrates both tradition and craft.

The shepherdess’s serene expression, flowing garments, and gentle presence among her flock are rendered through delicately layered alpaca fiber, capturing the softness of the subject and the richness of her surroundings. Each detail is meticulously placed, echoing Hofner’s reverence for the harmony between people and nature.

With this piece, Lanart honors Hofner’s artistry while adding the tactile depth and warmth unique to alpaca fiber—creating a one-of-a-kind collectible that feels timeless and alive.

• Dimensions: 16" x 20"
• Medium: Hand-painted Alpaca Fiber
• An Exclusive in-house Lanart Original

About the Artist – Milagros

Each felted portrait begins in the hands of Milagros, a gifted second-generation fiber artist who brings extraordinary sensitivity, skill, and depth to every piece. Raised in a household where felting was both a livelihood and a legacy, Milagros learned the art at her mother’s side—absorbing not just the technical skills, but the soulful storytelling that felting allows. Today, she continues that tradition with her own unique voice.

Formally trained in fine arts, Milagros approaches needle felting like painting with alpaca fiber—layering texture, light, and color to build dimension and emotion into each portrait. Her love of color is matched only by her ability to sculpt depth and life into every detail. Though naturally shy, she is a quiet force—an advocate for children’s rights in her community and an example of strength and compassion through art.

Milagros does not work alone. Behind each finished portrait is a small, dedicated team of artisans who help bring her vision to life:

The Process Behind the Portrait

• Hand-Painted Color: Each strand of alpaca fiber is individually hand-dyed in rich, nuanced hues, adding depth and warmth that bring the portrait to life.

• Creative Collaboration: Throughout the process, a trusted artistic advisor offers guidance on composition, tone, and emotional resonance—ensuring the portrait evolves with intention and balance.

• Thoughtful Framing: Once complete, the piece is carefully evaluated by our framer, who selects the perfect frame to enhance its natural beauty and elevate its presence.

The result is a truly collaborative piece of art, rooted in heritage and handcrafted with purpose. More than a decorative object, each portrait is a labor of love—a celebration of skill, tradition, and the quiet power of teamwork.