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, and a three-dimensional fur effect.  Pastel work is a deliberate process requiring base layers to build structure and ultimately the application of highlights for radiance. I use classical drawing techniques to portray light, form, and value as well as painting techniques such as brushwork and color mixing. On average it takes me 20-plus hours to complete a standard 8x10 portrait.  It is truly a labor of love and my passion! I enjoy straying from a  strictly neutral color palette and choose instead to bring out and celebrate the array of colors revealed within the subject, often in the fur, by my careful study of the reference. I therefore describe my pet portrait work as “stylized realism”. Please take the time to look closely the examples I have provided in my commission gallery. My refined use of color makes for a visually interesting piece for your home– all while capturing the spirit of your beloved animal friend! While each piece is a unique 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 pastels and archival paper, all designed to last a lifetime. The brands of pastel that I use are: 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?

 

Variety is the spice of life. I’d love to discuss the possibilities! Shoot me an email.

 

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. Please send me your reference image and we’ll go from there!

 

 

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 direction.

 

Of course I realize that many pet portraits are memorials and a high resolution photo may not be available. That’s usually ok! But please understand that a lower quality image may result in a portrait with slightly less detail. Send me your best photo(s) and I’ll let you know if I foresee any issue.

 

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 and no. I am open to accepting commissions with multiple subjects but your reference photo must be of the animals together. I do not Photoshop or otherwise combine photos artificially because doing so generally results in a reference image that is compositionally unnatural, especially in regard to lighting which is essential for a beautiful outcome.

 

Due to the fine hand-detailing of my work, I can only do multi-subject portraits in larger sizes. Exceptions might be made for smaller pets such as hamsters or small birds which I might be able to fit into a slightly smaller size – if this is what you are looking for, let’s talk!

 

I am happy to review your options and provide a quote after seeing the reference photo you would like to use. Please don’t hesitate to ask, I want to work with you!

 

 

Q: I don’t have a good reference photo with all of my pets together. What else can I do?

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Here’s a couple ideas:

 

-You can frame single portraits together using a mat board that has multiple cut-outs within a large frame.

 

-You can frame each single portrait separately in complementary style frames to hang side by side in a wall collage.

 

 

                             

 

Handling of your pastel painting and framing

 

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

 

Carefully! I do not use a fixative on my finished work as I find it alters the colors and textures too much. Therefore, pastel work must be handled very carefully, so as not to rub anything across it which could lead to smudging.  When you receive your portrait, it will have a special type of paper called glassine overlaying the top. Glassine paper will protect the portrait and prevent the pastel from rubbing off. I highly recommend keeping the glassine on top until you can frame it. 

 

 

Q: How should my portrait be framed?

 

Pastel artwork should be framed with double matting and under glass. The artwork can be taped to the matting using a low adhesive artist’s tape. Double matting prevents the glass from touching the artwork. You can frame it yourself or take it to a professional.

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