I enjoy bringing the personality of animals into my artwork. This is my dog, Tucker. I drew his portrait from a lucky shot taken on the bow of our boat. The sun was hitting him perfectly providing a highlight around him and he was poised in the bow, very proud of himself.

When a pet makes direct the eye contact with its owner in my portraits they are captured in a moment of time forever. In every detail of my artwork I work towards portraying the uniqueness of that animal, our mutual love and respect. It is from this understanding of the important role animals play in our lives and have developed a passion for creating lasting memories of beloved pets.

Why Pastel?

After spending many years in different media I have focused on pastels as they alone give me the touch ability and genuine softness present in so many of our animals. I have studied in Holland, the United States and Canada and continue to enjoy outstanding mentor ship from some of the best animal pastel artists in the world. For a sampling of the work I have completed recently see the tab on my Home Page for the Gallery of Pet Portraits.  Each portrait is created using high quality soft pastels and professional grade paper. I use high resolution photographs for reference. Good quality photographs will allow me to see all of the finer details and make it easier to interpret these in your portrait. The ideal photo is a close up showing eye contact with the viewer. I do appreciate that sometimes the pet has passed on and there are old photographs to work with. In which case I will do the best I can with what I am given.

How to Order Your Pet’s Portrait

I prefer to take the picture for my reference as the detail I require to create an accurate portrait is dependent on the reference available. Alternatively, if you are in the Simcoe County area, we may be able to arrange a time for me to take the photographs myself which I will be happy to do at not extra cost. I recognize that this is not always possible if the dog has passed away or lives at a distance. In this case mail or email a good quality close up images that you have taken. Usually a head and shoulder shot at at a 3/4 angle is best and usually having eye contact with the dog. Send several photos. There maybe a hidden gem waiting to be painted! l will let you know what I can do with the reference.

Choose the size you would like. The prices for a professional pastel portraits start at start at $375 for a 11″ x 14″ for dogs, cats, horses and other animals.  Custom sizes are also available, and if you have two dogs or two cats I will charge less for the second pet in the same picture. I ask for half of the payment when ordering and will email you a digital copy for your approval before it is finished. At this time you will pay the remainder owing. You can decide if you would like to have your portrait framed yourself or I can ask my framer who will include a wholesale price using non glare art glass. I will arrange delivery or arrange a pick up of the portrait. If shipping is involved it will be at your cost. My main concern is that you are happy with the result so that you can enjoy your portrait for many years to come.

When it is ready

My workload will determine the time frame to complete your portrait. If it is to be ready for a specific occasion please give me lots  of notice. (Note: there is a huge rush for Christmas presents in November but Gift Certificates are available!) I will email you a digital copy for your approval. Then your painting will be delivered or mailed to you. Shipping costs will be paid by you, or you may pick up the painting at my studo in Barrie, Ontario.

How to Order

Please use the contact sheet on the main page of this website or my email cherinht@gmail.com to send me your pictures and request a personalized quote. I will be honest and let you know if I can work with the photos you send.