Commissions

You’re thinking about commissioning a pet portrait?  Well, thanks for considering me for your one of a kind painting. I love to paint furry family members in my whimsical style and capturing the personality of your pet is my highest priority.

You have questions? Here are some answers.

What I Need
While no photos are ever part of the paintings, I can’t very well paint those little freckles you love so much on your dog’s nose if I don’t know what they look like, so I need to work from good reference photos. The better pictures I have, the better painting I can deliver.

In a perfect world, the photos should be sharp, good lighting, close-up of the face, a straight on or 3/4 pose, at eye level, and looking at the camera.  The more photos to choose from, the better.  Animal eyes are highly reflective, and a flash can completely wash out the detail.  You want your dog or cat to look happy in a painting, and happy photos help me do that.

Before I begin, we’ll need to have some back and forth to ensure I can deliver my best work. This is a conversation, so I can find out if we’re on the same page. I accept these commissions only after I’ve seen what photos you’ve got, and discover your expectations.

Memorial Portraits
I’m often hired to create paintings for a recently deceased furry family member. If you’re facing the difficult task of choosing photos for that purpose, I would recommend that you find ones that show your pet the way you want to remember him or her. Clients have often told me that going through the photos helps them with their grief, so give yourself the time you need.

Restrictions
I don’t paint people and animals together. Specific added details are considered on a case-by-case basis, but it never hurts to ask. I want you to be thrilled with your custom painting, so I’ll do what I can to accommodate your special requests.
Pricing
For 1 (one) animal, commissions start at 1900, which includes a hand-signed 18″X24″ canvas or matte metal print, and free shipping anywhere in Canada or the Continental United States. Completion time will vary, depending on my workload, but it’s usually around 6-8 weeks from receipt of approved reference photos. I require a 50 percent non-refundable installment on all commissions, the remainder due upon completion.

Different sized prints and framing options are available for an added fee. You will also receive a digital file for your personal use.

What satisfied clients have said

“Patrick, there are no words to describe how this makes me feel. I can barely type. Instant tears – I love it so much. I am forever grateful for this. It’s perfect. Thank you so much!!!” – Sharon G.

“You do such great work…I really like your style! It makes me smile :)” – Christina W.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you Patrick, that is stunning. You have captured him so very well, I am crying” – Michelle S.

“I love it. It’s perfect. You added the whimsy and didn’t lose an ounce of “her” in the process. Thank you so much for making the effort to know her to paint her.” – Suzanne R.

For more pet portraits, please visit my portfolio. I’m happy to answer any questions you have, so if you’d love a custom painting of your favourite cold, wet, nose in a unique happy style, drop me a line anytime.

Cheers,
Patrick
.