Author: connie

What is a Petite Pet Portrait?

A Petite Pet Portrait is simply a smaller pet portrait that provides a range of benefits.

The artwork measures 10 x 15cm, approximately the size of a postcard and fits perfectly in a 5″ x 7″ frame (easily available off the shelf).

Because it is smaller, it doesn’t need hanging and therefore offers a variety of display options.

The portrait can be a feature on a display shelf, television cabinet or even next to your bed!

The Petite Pet Portrait is created using the same materials as larger portraits.

I use several layers of pastel pencil on textured paper, which is available in a range of colours to suit your pet’s colouring and your decor.

The Petite Portraits are priced at $60 and are a great way to have your own unique pet portrait of your beloved fur friend.

If you’d like to find out more, click here and send me an email. I will personally reply to you and be happy to answer any questions you might have!

Zentangles

It’s fairly clear that Zentangles have bcome a bit of an obsession lately!

I find it relaxing to make a few swirly lines and see where they take me.

You don’t need anything more than a small sketchbook, a waterproof pen, pencil and a ‘blending stump’ or just a cotton bud will work just as well.

“The process of creating a Zentangle is a form of “artistic meditation” as one becomes completely engrossed in making each pattern, deliberately focusing on “one stroke at a time”. Click on this link to learn more about it: https://zentangle.com/pages/get-started.

There are so many resources online to help you get started. Let me know if you try it!!!

Thinking Scrapbooks

Recently I’ve been creating small (6″ x 6″) scrapbooks for each of my dogs.

I’ve discovered:

  • it’s fun creating page layouts
  • reliving the memories is special
  • it tells each pet’s unique story
  • will remain a treasured keepsake

Then I thought it would be nice to create a scrapbook for my first year with the puppies.

So here’s to creating more special memories!!

PS. If you are interested in having a scrapbook for your pet, let me know and I can put one together for you.

My first commission

My early portraits were drawn in charcoal pencil, which in fact, isn’t any easier than using pastel pencils. Rather than working out what colour to use, one has to closely observe the subtleties of tone.

So, looking through my records and photos, the honour belongs to Simba and Bailey, back in 2017. Simba and Bailey belong to the same family (shown here is Simba). I still love his cheeky face which is why he is one the front of my business cards!

After these two, the third portrait was for another feline. This time, it was Lollypopl. I remember this one was a Christmas gift and the tears when I delivered it to Lollypopl’s mum.

Looking back at these portraits, I still love them.

At times it can be bittersweet but knowing how loved these pets are, makes it all worthwhile.

Business Values

Business values reflect the principles, beliefs and purpose. As an artist creating unique pet portraits, I have my own criteria to which I hold myself accountable.

I work with every client so that the finished product is exactly what they envisioned it to be.

How?

I involve the client in the entire process. Together we select the best photo(s) to use, choose the best paper colour and send progress photos to allow opportunity for discussion, feedback and suggestions. It is important to respond to questions quickly. This gives the feeling of being valued and fosters a trusting relationship which ultimately produces a beautiful result.

A new portrait style

These smaller illustrations are a little different and add an eye-catching focal point. Basically I have used white pencil on black paper to only show the highlights. The hardest part is remembering to only include the lines that reflect the light. As more strokes are added, the portrait starts to take shape.