Artistry

 

Q: How would you describe your artistic process and style?

 

I specialize in using soft pastels to create painterly pet portraits with luminous, life-like eyes that convey depth and character, a textured, three-dimensional fur effect, and color-saturated gradient backgrounds.  I describe my pet portrait work as “stylized realism”. Pastels require a deliberate process of many layers: a base underpainting to establish structure and relationships, fur details to create depth and texture, and highlights for radiance. I use classical methods to portray light, form, and value as well as a variety of pastel painting techniques customized to best portray the unique qualities of each subject. On average it takes me 10 days to complete a standard 11x14 portrait.  It is truly a labor of love and my passion! I enjoy using highly pigmented color to selected areas adding vibrancy, visual interest,and a feeling of energy to my portraits. My goal is to convey not only the physical beauty of each animal but also the inner spirit and personality of each dear animal friend. Please take the time to look closely the examples I have provided in my commission gallery. While I approach each piece as a distinctive work of art, you can expect your portrait to be consistent in style and quality as the examples I have provided.

 

Q: What materials do you use? Will my portrait last a long time?

 

I use only professional quality light-fast soft pastels and archival paper, all designed to last a lifetime. The brands of pastel that I use are: Schmincke, Unison, Caran D’Ache, Derwent, Faber Castell, and Carbothello. I use exclusively Pastelmat paper.

 

Q: I have an idea for a pet portrait that’s different than what you offer on your website. Can you do it?

 

I’d love to discuss your vision! Shoot me an email and let me know what you have in mind! 

 

Q: I don’t have a pet but I have a favorite animal, can I commission a wildlife painting?

 

I am experienced in wildlife commissions as well. The process and cost is the same. 

 

Choosing a reference photo

 

Q: What makes a good reference photo?

 

The best reference photos are in digital, high-resolution format where the pet’s eyes can be clearly seen as well as the details of fur texture and direction of growth.

 

Of course I realize that many people do not have the highest quality photos of their pets, and some pet portraits are memorials where a high resolution photo may be impossible to obtain. That’s ok! I can work from any reference photo. Send me your best photos and we'll go from there!

 

Q: I have a couple photos and can’t decide which to use, can you help?

 

Absolutely! Email me your options and I’ll provide feedback on which will make the most beautiful portrait.

 

Q: I have lots of pets and would love a portrait of all of them together. Can you do that?

 

Yes! I am open to accepting commissions with multiple subjects in the larger sizes starting at 18x24. My site offers an option for 2 pets as an 18x24 portrait. For more than two subjects, I am happy to review your options and provide a customized quote after seeing the reference photos you would like to use. Please don’t hesitate to ask, I want to work with you!

 

Q: I have multiple pets of different species that may look odd in a portrait together. What else can I do?

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I suggest creating a portrait of each pet individually in complementary style frames to hang side by side in a gallery wall presentation.

 

 

                             

 

Handling of your pastel painting and framing

 

Q: How should I remove and handle my portrait once it is received?

 

 

When your portrait arrives, it will include clearly written instructions for opening, handling, and framing. Your portrait will arrive in a custom made foamcore presentation box and covered with a special type of conservation paper called glassine which will protect the surface of the portrait and prevent the pastel from rubbing off. I do not use a fixative on the finished painting as I find it alters the colors and textures too much. Therefore, your pastel portrait must be handled very carefully, so as not to rub anything across it which could lead to smudging.  Your portrait can be stored safely within the packaging and under the glassine, until it is framed. 

 

Q: How should my portrait be framed?

 

Pastel artwork should be framed with double matting and under glass; My preferred type is called museum glass as it provides superior UV protection, minimizes reflection, and maintains clarity.  Double matting prevents the glass from touching the artwork. You can frame it yourself or take it to a professional.

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