As a pet artist and working from clients own photos, feedback means a great deal.  Receiving really positive comments from the recipients help boost my confidence. It can sometimes be a little daunting when the painting is delivered and waiting for a response.  Then the relief comes flooding in, not only that it has arrived safely, but receiving the overwhelming kind comments.

Our pets are so very special, especially the canine variety.  Sadly when they leave us it creates such a void in our lives. Of course we have photo snaps to remind us of all the walks and fun times, but a painting means just that little bit more.  After all they are a member of the family, never to be forgotten.

Floss the Collie 

Here is Floss a beautiful Collie Dog who was so devoted to her family.  Floss’ painting was commissioned as a special anniversary surprise.  Today I received a lovely email, here is what was said….. “With the help of  our 8 year old daughter Eleanor I opened the 10th wedding anniversary gift on Thursday morning.  The beautiful painting reduced us both to tears.  It now has a prominent place on our living room wall”.

See all the latest comments on my Facebook Page.

All of my pet paintings are hand drawn and as an artist I like to portray a true lifelike representation of your pet. Adding layers to a painting whilst shaping and moulding the features will give it a realistic look.

Taco featured here is a Labrador and Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross breed.  His feet fur are orange and he has quite short stocky legs.  Whereas is face is more labrador and he has a lovely kind look in his eyes.

Black and white dogs can be more challenging to paint than dogs with warmer orange tones.  Although taking a photograph in natural light is crucial in capturing all the colour tones. Especially for black or white or both coloured dogs.

As you can see in Taco’s painting in reality there is not very much black.  Lots of blue, purple and red/brown hues. This really gives depth and definition.  Photographs that are taken indoors don’t have as much contrast.

I like to paint my backgrounds in a ambient style so as to incorporate the shades of colour from the animal’s coat.  This can also be achieved when giving a sky and field muted background.  Art is a lot to do with being able to see colour and also using some imagination to add or enhance colours.

I am a pet artist based in Devon and am currently taking bookings for the festive season.

This is the busiest time of the year for pet artists therefore it is never too early to secure your place.  There is an overflow from this time which takes me usually up until the summer to catch up.

Prices start at £280 for an aperture size of 12″ x 10″ which includes framing from a stock selection.

This price also includes Postage to the UK only.  Paintings are securely padded and wrapped in a large strong box.

Large size paintings will need to be collected in person, or an arrangement made for a mutually convenient meet up. If you are local I am happy to take photographs of your dog to use as a reference.

There is no extra charge for taking photographs and I will ask for you to come to my home address.  I work from home and have some original paintings of dogs that can also be seen. Photographs I have taken can be viewed on the computer so we can agree on the best one.  I will email a mock up with a suitable ambient background in the colours of your choice.  A deposit will be needed to secure your place and give you peace of mind.

It can be very difficult to think of gifts for your partner, husband, girlfriend or boyfriend, and if you have a pet, these paintings are something very special.  I take very special pride in capturing the individual character of your pet, and this takes a lot of  time to achieve.  A black labrador dog is not just that, but your loving companion and family member.  I want my paintings to reflect a personality trait which relates to your dog and not just any dog.

Please get in touch, and I look forward to hearing from you!  Helen

Mac the Bearded Collie and Dotty the Pug are my latest two completed dog paintings.  Both to a size of 12″ x 10″ and have been framed to completed the look.

The last few months, well actually months before the end of the year have been extremely busy. The studio has been a in constant use, and I will need to get time to replenish some art equipment. 

This cute girl Dotty is an older Pug dog and is very much loved by her owner, who wanted a forever keepsake of her best friend.

The subtle background shades which compliment Dotty’s colouring and also allowing her to stand out.  With a wired waxed pine frame picking out her orange tones to complete the overall effect.

I have also completed a grey mare Misty painting to a size of 12″ x 16″ which I will update soon.