THE PROCESS
When undertaking animal or house portraits, I usually work from a photo on my iPad. That way I can zoom in to focus on details and zoom out for the overall proportions.
I get to work on the eyes early on in the process, as getting these right is crucial if I am to bring the picture to life and give a sense of the animal’s character.
The nose and central parts of the face make the picture come together and gives me the confidence to continue. If I don’t get these right, I start again!
Every hair is important, whether drawn as a line or suggested in a sweep of the brush. They give the texture and ‘strokability’ I want in the finished piece.
A bit of background in this piece situates Frith and makes her pale, subtle colouring stand out.
Want to see a short video of me drawing a squirrel? Of course you do. Click here.
PRICING
I can work to most budgets, but do bear in mind the amount of time it takes to obtain the level of detail that really makes a pet portrait stand out. For this reason, the smallest size I usually offer is 12 x 12 cm (mount aperture; image size may be slightly smaller).
- 12 x 12 cm = £80
- A5, one animal = £100
- A5, two animals = £120
- A4, one animal = £175
- A4, two animals = £200
- A3, one animal = £300
- A3, two animals = £330
House portraits are charged at the same prices as above, as if for one animal.
All artworks come with a mount and backing board, ready for framing, and include delivery by 2nd class, signed for post. Overseas orders will by sent in a postal tube and may incur an extra shipping charge.
Illustrations
For those with a slightly smaller budget, or those looking for something more whimsical, I offer bespoke illustrations. I can rework ideas that you may have seen in some of my previous pieces on the website, or I can work to a brief (as long as it is animal-based).
Past commissions in this style have included children’s birthday and christening pictures, featuring their favourite animal; wedding presents; designs for invitations; bespoke name cards, and more.
Prices for these start at £25 for something small and simple, and increase with size and complexity by agreement with the client. These pieces may not be mounted unless requested, and prices do not include post and packaging.
If you have an idea you’d like to see as an illustration, or you’d like to commission a house or animal portrait, simply fill in the form below and I’ll respond as quickly as possible.