Pet Portraits UK in pastel & oil

Clients often ask me what is the difference between pastels and oils.   With both mediums I create my pet portraits by building up layers.

Pastels are a dry medium and are built up in several layers.   But as it is a dry medium it means I can carry on with my portrait without waiting for each layer to dry.

Because Pastels are a dry medium, the paintings need to be framed under glass.  I use a mount between the painting and the glass to keep the glass from touching the pet portrait.

Oils are a wet medium; therefore I have to wait for each layer to dry before I can proceed with the next.  Oils are very time consuming and the pet portraits take several weeks to finish.  Oils do not need to be framed under glass.  The canvas can be hung unframed, or you can have it framed.

Neither medium is more superior than the other, both are equal in quality.

As with any mediums, if properly taken care of pet portraits will last for many lifetimes.

Clients sometimes have trouble choosing which medium to have for the pet portrait.  I can guide them when I have seen the photos of their pet, but really it’s down to personal preference.  Pastels are a soft medium, which makes fur texture look ‘real’.  Oils are a little more vibrant but can look equally as real and lifelike.

My waiting list varies depending on time of year.  I work on a first come first serve basis.  If you have a deadline in mind, let me know as soon a possible and I will be happy to help you.  Please note, the nearer it gets to Christmas, the longer the waiting list gets, so book your pet portraits early to avoid leaving it too late! 

If you are looking to buy an animal portrait as a gift then consider buying one of my pet portrait gift certificates. The owner can then decide which pose they would like and whether they prefer pet portraits in pastels or oils. 

For my pet portraits I work from one photo.  This photo of your dog, cat, horse or any other animal needs to be one that you love and say “this is typically her/him”.  Other photos are helpful for colouring and for me to see character, but not necessary if you don’t have them.  See my pet portraits photo guide blog post to help you with taking your photos of your pet or pets.  If you are local to me, I can come and take your photos for you!

You can order pet paintings in any of the sizes I offer.

For example I have done a horse portrait in the smallest size 10” x 12” and a cat portrait head study in my largest size 20” x 24”!  The smallest size would be head study only.

If you are unsure which size you would like, send me an email with a photo of your pet or pets and I will gladly guide you to a suitable size (e.g. if you wanted it life-size).