When my little dog Boeing had a health crisis, little did I realize it would be a stressful start to something amazing. Thankfully, he made it through but in order to cover the unexpected costs, I began a series of pet portraits. Now years later, I have painted nearly 100 paintings of beautiful fur babies, including extra special pieces of pets no longer with us.
Creating one of a kind paintings or pet portraits for you is an honour and a privilege and I can’t wait to work with you! Your fur baby will also enjoy the art: check out Cookie and His Portrait!
COMMISSION OPTIONS AND FEES
STYLE 1
Pet(s) on White or Simple/Abstract Background:
Mini 4x6 or smaller* - $100
6x8 - $200
8x10 - $300
9x12 - $400
For larger size please inquire.
STYLE 2
Pet(s) with Floral Embellishments or Additional Accessories (i.e. dog bed, favourite toy, etc)
Mini 4x6 or smaller* - $150
6x8 - $250
8x10 - $360
9x12 - $470
For larger size please inquire.
STYLE 3
Colourful and Loose Style on White/Simple Background
Mini 4x6 or smaller* - $75
6x8 - $100
8x10 - $200
9x12 - $300
For larger size please inquire.
*The Mini painted subject, for any style, is typically 4x4 or 4x6 but will be on an 8x8 paper, giving the art space to breathe.
**Please note that commission fees do not include shipping fees**
HOW IT WORKS:
Watercolour paintings will be painted in professional grade watercolours with ink detailing on fine art, heavy weight watercolour papers. These papers are made of 100% cotton fibres, are acid-free and archival.
A 50% deposit minimum is required to reserve your spot in my calendar for your piece. Turn around time is between 2-4 weeks, depending on the size of your painting and schedule.
Once your piece is complete, you will receive your painting carefully packaged to protect it from bending and from the elements. You will also receive a Certificate of Authenticity signed and dated by the artist.
If your pet has crossed to the Rainbow Bridge, please let me know and I will include an extra card.
PHOTO REFERENCES
I will require a clear photograph of your pet from a front and centre angle that has not been taken in direct sunlight. The more photos you share with me the better! If you are unsure, send me as many photos as you like and I can help you choose the best ones.
Here is an example of a good photo with good lighting, clarity and angle and the resulting portrait:
EXAMPLES OF POOR PHOTO REFERENCES (even though they’re still super cute)
Things to Avoid When Taking Your Pet’s Photo:
Avoid direct sunlight
Downward angles - these foreshorten the legs
Screenshots from social media (reduces the quality)
A moving target - use treats to keep your pet’s focus on you ;)
Avoid using flash
HOW TO ORDER
Step 1: Choose your size and style
I work in three main styles listed above. In your message, please include your preferred style number and size.
For non-pet commissions, fee subject to size, content and complexity.
Step 3: Get in touch and book your slot
When you are ready, get in touch via email. I will confirm the current lead time upon your inquiry. If you have any specific deadlines, please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate you.
I will send an invoice and payment can be made securely through PayPal (International) or E-Transfer (Canada only). I require a 50% deposit upfront to secure your slot in my calendar.
Step 2: Choose your reference photos
Don’t hesitate to send me more than one. I encourage several in fact!
I recommend using treats and natural light when taking your pet’s photo. It also helps to get down to your pet’s eye level.
Step 4: Painting and delivery
Upon receiving your deposit, I will get to work on your painting. As painting progresses, I will update you with a more specific date of completion. If you’d like progress shots, please let me know. Otherwise, it will be a surprise!
If you are in the Greater Vancouver area, we can arrange to meet for delivery. Otherwise, your painting will be carefully packaged for shipping.
**Please note that commission fees do not include shipping fees**
Are you interested in a pet portrait or custom artwork? Please email me for schedule and any questions.
Would you like your piece framed? Please let me know and we can discuss available options, colours and additional fee.
Visit the gallery for a showcase of portraits of some very dignified furry friends.
Exclusivity for Fine Art
Pieces commissioned for personal enjoyment and not for editorial/business purposes will not be made into reproductions or offered as any form of print in my shop or with another company. As the buyer, you have exclusive rights to display the artwork in your home. I reserve the right to share the piece online as part of my portfolio and/or social media (you can share here too!).
The Fine Print
As the artist, I maintain the copyright ownership to all art/visuals and intellectual property. However, as per industry standards, I am happy to negotiate licensing, usage rights and potentially ownership on a per project basis (most relevant to editorial and business projects/commissions).