Custom Animal Artwork - The Journey

Over ten years ago, I said yes to my very first custom portrait. It was terrifying. Intimate. Beautiful. And it completely changed the way I make art.

I still remember those first few portraits. They were done in the middle of my living room. Pastel dust covered the floor. Printed reference photos were taped to my desk. My heart was full of nerves.

What I didn’t know then was how deeply these pieces would matter. Not just to the people who commissioned them, but to me.

The Mistakes That Made Me

There was this one horse. A real stunner. The kind where the eyes start glowing before you're even halfway done. You just know the soul is about to show up.

And then, disaster struck. I knocked over an entire glass of water. Right. On. The. Page.

Pastel and water do not get along.

There was no saving it. I just sat there, feeling defeated. Then slowly sank to the floor, staring and mourning.

It felt like a full-blown artistic funeral, complete with several stiff drinks.

The next day, slightly hungover and still heartbroken, I pulled out a fresh sheet of pastel paper and started again.

And honestly? I still miss that one.

What I've Learned Since Then

There have been many lessons in the years between then and now. Some funny. Some hard. Some reshaped how I work completely.

One crucial lesson is this: A good reference photo isn’t enough. It has to be great. Not just clear, but true to the animal.

I once spent an entire day zoomed in on a pixelated little nose, trying to guess where the nostrils went. Never. Again.

Now? If I’m saying yes to a custom, I’m making a promise. Not just that you’ll love it, but that I will too.

When I sit down to create a portrait, I’m not just drawing. I’m listening. Listening for the moment when the spirit of your animal starts to come through. When the glint in their eye is just right. When I feel them in the room with me.

That only happens when I have the right reference. It’s not a rule. It’s a love language.

This Work Is Meant To Be Felt

Here’s something most people don’t know about me: I don’t think I’ve done my job properly unless someone cries.

These portraits are emotional. They’re layered with memory, presence, grief, and gratitude. They’re love stories wrapped in fur, whiskers, and silence.

They take time. They take care. And they live in your home forever.

So yes, tears are welcome. Hugs too.

And the chance to be part of your story? That will never be lost on me.

Want to Begin Your Portrait?

Every single custom I take on is personal. It’s a collaboration between your love for them, my hands, and something deeper I can’t always name — but feel every time I work.

If you’re ready to start a custom piece — or if you just want to learn how it works — you can find all the details right here.

And if your only question is: “Is it too much to cry over a portrait?” Let me just say: we’re off to a perfect start.

The Journey of Creation

Creating a custom portrait is a journey. It’s not just about putting pastel to paper. It’s about connecting with the essence of the animal. Each stroke carries a piece of their spirit.

I often find myself reflecting on the bond between humans and animals. It’s a connection that runs deep. It’s filled with love, loyalty, and memories.

When I create, I think about the stories behind each pet. The adventures they’ve shared with their humans. The quiet moments of companionship. Each portrait captures a fragment of that story.

The Emotional Impact

Art has a unique power. It can evoke emotions we didn’t know we had. A simple glance at a portrait can bring back a flood of memories. It can make us smile, laugh, or even cry.

I strive to create pieces that resonate on a personal level. I want each portrait to feel like a warm embrace. A reminder of the love shared.

When you hang a portrait in your home, it becomes a part of your life. It sparks conversations. It brings joy. It reminds you of the bond you share with your beloved animal.

The Importance of Connection

Connection is at the heart of my work. It’s what drives me to create. I want to capture the unique personality of each animal. I want their spirit to shine through.

When I receive a commission, I take the time to understand the animal. I ask questions. I listen to stories. I want to know what makes them special.

This connection is vital. It allows me to create a portrait that truly reflects the essence of the animal. It’s a labor of love.

Final Thoughts

In the end, creating a custom portrait is about more than just art. It’s about love, connection, and memory. It’s about honoring the bond between humans and animals.

I invite you to join me on this journey. Let’s create something beautiful together. A piece that will be cherished for years to come.

Your story matters. Your animal’s spirit deserves to be celebrated. Together, we can make that happen.