As a photography major in college, I was naturally drawn to photorealism in the world of painting. Never imagining I could master that art genre, a friend convinced me to paint “The Colonel’s Pups” as a birthday gift to her family friend. 

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With almost immediate success, due in part to my teaching background and architectural drafting skills, I was hooked! Now with over 62 original pet portraits in the books, I am still taking commissions to paint pet portrait originals in oil and acrylic. The animal is painted in oil for maximum realism and the background is painted in acrylic for a separational effect. Realistic backgrounds can be used but my choice is to paint the animal as the focal point with background objects floating around in a sort of whimsical way, i.e. favorite toys, food, patterns, decor color, sports team...something meaningful to the family or owner.

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For an original pet portrait, use the form below to request information on a commission.