I absolutely loved Mia’s reference photograph, in addition to being well lit and clear, it really captured her expression and...

I started with a simple, very faint sketch in blue pastel. Once I was happy with the layout, I then added a layer of ivory colour for the...

Framing pastel artwork Pastel is notoriously delicate, the slightest rub can destroy a pastel artwork, and the only assured way to...

Extra Small – 8″ x 6″ / 15 x 10 cm As a general guide a 8″ x 6″ size is suitable for a single pet’s head and shoulder portrait: Ruby’s 8″...

This Alaskan Malamute enjoying the snow is the latest in my Outdoor Dogs collection. Alaskan Malamute I always find it amazing to watch...

It can be difficult to decide whether or not to include a background when commissioning a painting or drawing. Here are five different...

Black animals are notoriously difficult to photograph, so I was really glad to get such great reference photographs of these two black...

This is Rua. Rua has been a member of our family since November 2014 when she came to us from Vizsla Rescue. Like too many dogs, she had...

Bix’s portrait was commissioned by as a birthday gift, so I’ve had to be very secretive about sharing any updates in case I spoiled the...

I have had so many commissions for portraits of Labradors in the past few weeks, I thought I would dedicate a blog especially to them....

Commissioning a portrait of more than one subject does not require a reference photograph of all subjects together.  You may be lucky...