This is sort of turning into art week here on the blog.  There is just a lot happening with my artwork right now, so that’s what was in the hopper to share.  I do have some other home projects going on, though, and I’ll share some of those next week.  I really just need to take the time to get some photos of what I’ve been working on.

Anyway, today I wanted to officially announce that I am offering commissioned paintings.  I’ve taken one or two here and there, but I always felt a little intimidated by them!  Actually, a lot intimidated!  But, I feel like I’ve grown as an artist both technically and in acknowledging my own abilities.  (It’s interesting that we have to nurture the ability to say, “Hey, I’m actually good enough to do this!”)  I feel more comfortable in my style and process and, while I will always seek to become better and better, I’m in a place where it makes sense to accept some commissions.

My primary focus will be animal/pet portraits, but I will also accept landscape commissions at this point.  If you have an idea outside of those two genres, then just reach out and we’ll see if what you want is in my wheelhouse.  If I don’t think I can do it justice, I’ll just say so and there is no harm done.  If you’re interested, you can get pricing information and fill out the form HERE.  I already have a few in the hopper, so I’m scheduling about a month out.

Here is an example of some of the pet paintings I’ve done over the past year…

I am offering the paintings in four standard sizes so they are cost-effective to frame in new or vintage/antique frames.  As an alternative option, though, I am building a stash of antique and vintage frames (some are irregular in size) and we can select one that would be best for your commission so it can arrive framed.  When thinking about the size you want, there are a few things to consider.  Of course, cost.  The larger the painting, the more paint, material, and time it takes, so the more expensive it is.  If you want a traditional portrait of your pet’s face 8 x 10, 9 x 12, and 11 x 14 would all be good options.  If you would like a full-body painting of the animal in an environment, like a dog running on a beach or a cow in a field, then 11 x 14 and 16 x 20 would be best.  You also want to consider where you want to hang the painting in your home.  11 x 14 and larger can stand on their own nicely while 9 x 12 or smaller are better as a part of a grouping.

I work off of reference photos, so here are some tips on taking photos of animals…

• Take the photo in natural light
• I can make up the background, so it doesn’t have to be pretty.
• Contrast between the light & shadows is great for paintings
• Get at eye level with your pet
• If you’re using an iPhone camera, the lens will distort your pet’s face if you’re too close.  Take a step back and zoom in to minimize distortion.
• Include the entire body in the shot.  Make sure you’re not cutting off feet, ends of tails, etc.  I can always crop if you want a portrait-style painting, but I can’t make up what’s out of the frame.
• Don’t edit or use a filter on the images.
• High-resolution photos are best if you have them.
• If your pet has passed away (first, sorry), then we will work with the best you have!

More art news is coming soon including classes and prints available in a new format.  It’s all pretty exciting!

Just a reminder that my next original art sale is tomorrow, Friday, August 25, 2023, at 1:00 pm EST.  You can see a preview of available works and prices HERE.