Tex

Why do I paint pet portraits?

I love animals, and the ones we choose to share our lives with as pets teach us about some of life's most important lessons. From them we learn gentleness and patience, affection and responsibility, loyalty and, perhaps too often, 
forgiveness. In caring for them, we learn that love is its own reward, and that there is no greater joy than to be loved in return.  Pets enrich our lives emotionally, spiritually, and physically. In painting them, I hope to celebrate their contribution to our lives and the special place they hold in our
hearts.

I would be honored if you selected me to paint a portrait of your pet.  It is a responsibility that I take to heart.  I know how important it is to capture that spark of personality that makes your pet so special. I also know that you will probably only commission one portrait of your pet, and I want it to be outstanding. My goal is to provide you with a portrait that will celebrate a special friend, preserve memories, and provide a connection to your pet long after it has gone.

What is the final product?

I work in pastel, which is a medium that is pure pigment held together by a minimal amount of binder.  This results in particularly rich and luminous color.  The portraits are done on acid free, 65% rag content paper.  The size of the portrait is up to you, and size determines price.  The backgrounds are usually plain with light and shadow, unless the setting is integral to the pose, or if you request something special.

The two smaller sizes of portraits include "artist's choice" framing, which means I select a frame that cooridinates with the portrait.  I custom order each frame for each portrait.  The portraits are double matted with acid-free matboard and backed with acid free backing board, and they are framed behind regular glass. I am always happy to make special accommodations, but it may add to the final cost.

The two larger sizes of portraits do not include framing.  I offer custom framing on these, but you are under no obligation to have me do your framing, although I do try to make custom framing affordable.

Please visit my gallery to see some of the portraits I have done.