Meg was an utterly adored dog. More than a pet, she was an integral part of the family. After a short illness she sadly passed away, and her absence in the home is sorely felt. I was approached by Meg’s owner to draw a commissioned portrait of her, so her image could stay on the wall in their home office where she so loyally kept her people company.
Planning a pastel pet portrait of Meg
The client and I discussed the options; from size, composition, medium and background colour. It was a collaboration at every stage, and together we chose pastel to capture Meg and her perfectly scruffy coat and those soulful eyes. I work on Pastelmat paper which comes in various hues, but none of the colours were quite right, so we opted for a pale grey background to be drawn in.
As Meg was a petite Jack Russell, I drew her smaller than I typically work. The entire portrait was just 25cm tall, which once framed would be a perfect fit for the spaces that the client knew that Meg would be.
In the words of the client
As always with a commissioned portrait, I scanned the artwork at every stage to keep the client involved in the process.
‘Seeing this drawing come to life makes my heart sing, your work and the portrait are gorgeous. You have done Meg proud; thank you from the bottom of my heart.’
Portrait framing service
The final presentation of a portrait is vitally important. Not only do you want to ensure that your portrait looks magnificent, it must also be protected and secure for years to come. I offer a framing service for all commissioned artworks. Combining my years of experience with the skills of my local specialist picture framers, Stable Art. We employ only the best, acid free materials, and offer a wide range of styles and options. With your artwork professionally framed, it is ready to display as soon as when you receive it.
I worked closely with the client to have Meg framed in a way that would compliment her, as well as fitting in with his decor in his home. In addition, I arranged for the frame to be both suitable for wall hanging and free standing, so Meg’s portrait can live in different places around the home.
Communication is key at every stage of the commissioning process, so I took photographs at the framers, and we discussed all the options, making sure the frame, the fixings and evern the glass used were the best fit for his precious Meg.
‘Only one word: perfect.
That really is very lovely and a testament to your skill and eye. Thank you for your deliberations and the framers. Thank you again.’
A pet portrait drawn from your photographs
Portrait commissions are always welcomed from both UK based and international clients. On my Commissions page there is an overview of the process, and for a more in depth look at commissioning a fine art portrait, please read this guide.
For any questions you may have, or advice you may need, you can contact me here or call or WhatsApp on 07967 416072
