Identical twin sisters Trudy and Judy Milligan of Monroeville became artists at a very young age.

They have fond memories of watching their older brother, David, sketch animals at the kitchen table. Though they were only tall enough to rest their chins on the tabletop, the sisters would stand for hours, captivated by his drawing.

This early exposure sparked a lifelong passion for animals and art, and specifically, drawing animals.

“Our mom would say things like, ‘Why can’t there be one room in this house without any animal picture in it?’ and ‘Why don’t you draw a flower?’” Judy recalled.

The sisters, both award-winning artists and members of the East Suburban Artists League, are the featured artists for October at the Monroeville Public Library, 4000 Gateway Campus Blvd. Their exhibit, “Horses and other of God’s Animals,” will be on display in the Elaine Biondi Gallery Space from Sept. 26 to Oct. 28.

They hope to use the exhibit to honor their late brother, David, who loved nature and ignited their passion for art.

Trudy and Judy work with pastels, oils and pencils, and their prints will be available for purchase during the show.

Years ago, the self-taught sisters exhibited their artwork and won several awards. However, as owners of the Little Crickett Hair Salon in Monroeville, they became busy, and their art took a backseat.

Even when they weren’t actively drawing, they were thinking about it.

“A couple of years ago, we decided to get back into it,” Judy said. “When we started again, it was just like finding an old friend.”

“It’s just something inside you,” Trudy added. “We just love animals and appreciate all animals. Horses are our favorites.”

For more information, visit the Friends of the Monroeville Public Library on Facebook and Instagram, or contact Linda Reese at monroevillegallerylreese@gmail.com.

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