I can’t believe it’s November. 2022 is nearly over. It was a pretty good year for me in a lot of ways. BUT, this post isn’t about that. This post is about Christmas gifts, because it’s that time of year AGAIN. ALREADY. WHAT.
I wanted to do something I’ve never done before, and that’s offer $25 mini portraits. These are wallet sized pet portraits, done in watercolors, inktense, and brushpen, and shipped straight to you at no additional charge.
The minis are a lot of fun, and I prefer doing fun things with them.
How does it work?
- Place an order in my Etsy shop. You pay when you place your order. Let me know what I’m painting, tell me your pet’s name.
- I’ll reach out for a good photo, preferably multiple good photos of your pet.
- I sketch, then send you the initial sketch for feedback. These portraits are small, so are most likely going to be a bust or headshot.
- I add color to your pet! My portraits usually don’t include a background of any kind, but sometimes a wash.
- I will ship your original portrait to you, or to your intended recipient if you prefer, in a cellophane sleeve and a stiff card for protection.
To get a good portrait, I need a good photograph to work from–preferably multiple good photographs.
What makes a photo GOOD?
- Clear, well lit, photos are best.
- If you want a flattering portrait, send me a flattering photo.
- If you want a goofy portrait, send me a goofy photo.
- Multiple photos help me get a feel for the shape and true color of your pet. Maybe you have a great photo of your dog in action, and that’s the one I use for the primary reference–but I have to use one of the other photos to find out what your dog’s eye color actually is.
- Multiple photos let me choose the one best suited for modeling, but also allow me to supplement for an even better composition.
- If you keep a social media account for your pet, feel free to send me that.
What kinds of animals do I paint?
Cautiously, any kind! But, most often I paint birds, horses, dogs, and cats.
I make each portrait with a mix of media, primarily the water soluble kind. I combine watercolor, gouache, inktense, and sometimes brush pen, to bring each piece to life. I use a setting spray to protect the work once it’s finished.
Anyhow, that’s my Christmas experiment. Pet Portrait Minis! Be sure to check out my Etsy Shop and order yours!
