Ever since I first saw Bruegel's 'The Flight into Egypt' at the Courtauld Gallery in London, I’ve been fascinated by the materials and techniques that give those paintings their inner glow and subtle depth. My animal portraits are a bit of an indulgence in this traditional way of thinking about painting. [1]
I am particularly interested in the crossover between the older practice of egg tempera and that of oil painting. I build my work in layers on 8mm panels, which I prepare myself using traditional gesso. Using a combination of egg yolk (tempera), oil emulsions, and straight oil paint, I create a surface that plays with light in a way modern materials rarely do. To ensure the quality of the finish, I make my own paint and process my own linseed oil.
Sizes and Custom Commissions
The sizes listed here (A4, A3, and A2) are approximate and intended to give you a clear idea of the price range. If you have a specific size or proportion in mind, I am more than happy to discuss a custom piece to suit your needs.
For charcoal work, changing sizes is straightforward. However, for paintings, the preparation of the 8mm panels is a labor-intensive process. Each panel is hand-prepared with multiple layers of traditional gesso, which takes at least a full day of work.
Existing Stock: If I have a suitable panel already prepared in my studio, I am happy to use it at no extra cost.
Custom Panels: If I need to build and gesso a panel from scratch to your specific dimensions, there is an additional £50 fee to cover the preparation time and materials.
Please feel free to get in touch to see what I currently have in stock or to discuss a particular project.
Photographic References
The quality of your reference photo is vital. While I can make minor adjustments, a clear, high-resolution image allows me to capture the true character of your pet, especially when I havent met them.
To keep my commission prices accessible for such a time-consuming technique, I need to be able to work efficiently from the start. I understand that getting a pet to sit still for a photo isn't always easy! If you aren't sure which photo to use, I am very happy to advise you on which one will translate best into a painting.
For a quick guide on what makes a great reference—including lighting and angles—please take a look at this helpful video: How to take a great pet reference photo.
I will be adding more specific tips here soon, but in the meantime, please feel free to email me a few options if you’re undecided.
Custom Options & Extras
Multiple Subjects: For portraits including more than one pet, please add 50% of the base price per additional subject.
Mounting & Framing: All work is supplied unframed. Because I use 8mm panels, I am happy to advise on the best framing options (such as tray frames) to suit your home.
How to Order
Reference Photos: Choose 2–3 high-quality, clear photos of your pet. Along with your main choice(s), I would also appreciate a few pictures from different angles—such as a profile view and from overhead. This helps me get a much better understanding of the underlying form and anatomy of your pet’s head, which is vital for a lifelike portrait.
If you're unsure which photos will work best, please see my guide to reference photos or email them to me for advice.
Consultation: We will discuss the best medium (Charcoal or Painting) and size for your subject.
Deposit: To begin work, I require a 50% non-refundable deposit to cover materials and the initial preparation of your panel.
Completion: Once finished, I will send a digital preview for your approval before final payment and delivery.
Sizes and Custom Commissions
The sizes listed here (A4, A3, and A2) are approximate and intended to give you a clear idea of the price range. If you have a specific size or proportion in mind, I am more than happy to discuss a custom piece to suit your needs.
For charcoal work, changing sizes is straightforward. However, for paintings, the preparation of the 8mm panels is a labor-intensive process. Each panel is hand-prepared with multiple layers of traditional gesso, which takes at least a full day of work.
Existing Stock: If I have a suitable panel already prepared in my studio, I am happy to use it at no extra cost.
Custom Panels: If I need to build and gesso a panel from scratch to your specific dimensions, there is an additional £50 fee to cover the preparation time and materials.
Please feel free to get in touch to see what I currently have in stock or to discuss a particular project.