FAQs
How do I get a piece of artwork commissioned?
Portraits are created from your photos with the highest quality professional-grade materials.
The first step toward commissioning a painting is to email me several high-resolution photos of your pet. Using the criteria listed below, your photos will need to be approved before you are placed on the waiting list. I will then give you an approximate timeframe as to when I will be able to start on the portrait and will check in with you again when I am ready to begin painting to confirm details with you. To learn more about the commission process, go HERE.
What kind of photo do I need to send as a reference photo?
The quality of the photo is the most important aspect-the better the quality, the better the portrait. I won’t be able to paint what I cannot see and struggling or even guessing will not get the desired results for either of us. I want this to be a lasting tribute to your beloved pet, making sure that the painting brings your pet to life and that I can see all the wonderful details that make your pet unique. Keep in mind that a larger photo will allow me to be able to zoom in. The eyes are the absolute most important detail for the painting and I will need to be able to see them well and second most important is a photo that has been taken in good lighting, preferably outdoors. This will ensure that I can accurately see the color of the fur. Do note, that too much sun can also distort the fur color and wash it out.
A blurry image is very difficult to work from and I sometimes do receive these of pets who have passed on. Sadly, if that is the case, we can visit about this and see if there is a possible way we can come to a resolution that we both will find acceptable.
How much do you charge?
Prices for custom pet portraits are dependent on the size of the portrait. The smallest size that I do is 8x10 to the largest at 12x16. Please note that there are additional charges for more than one pet in a portrait along with specific requirements.
How do I care for and frame my pastel painting?
Pastels are created using pure pigments like those in fine oil paints, but without binders that can degrade over time. This makes pastels one of the most permanent art mediums. A light fixative has been applied to prevent smudging, but the painting is still delicate until framed.
For framing, choose a professional experienced with pastels to avoid excess fixative and ensure archival-quality materials are used. If framing yourself, always place behind glass and keep out of direct sunlight
Learn more about caring for your artwork HERE.