Frequently Asked Questions

Why do you paint dogs?

I love dogs, their crazy characters, their expressions, the way they wriggle themselves into your life.
As an artist, I am fortunate to be able to combine my love of dogs in my art work.
I want to share this joy ... in a piece of fine art... the ability to look at a painting and remember fondly this source of joy, my furry soul mate, whom I had the pleasure of looking after and one who became a large part of my life.

What makes your work stand out as being different from the rest?

When I paint a portrait I want to get a full rounded image of what your pet means to you. What I do goes way beyond working from a photograph.
If it is to commemorate your best friend, to keep his memory forever, that is when I love to hear about the stories...

I am a professional artist with 30 years experience and unlike other pet portrait artists who digitally produce their work on a computer from a photograph, at Canvas Dog Studio my dog portraits are painted in the traditional manner using acrylic paints… an investment that one is proud to hang on their walls with other art work.

I love to paint large scale in painterly and expressionistic manner using colour and texture to evoke mood and movement.
Is your dog wild and funny or serene and calm? I use colours that evoke those feelings or emotions and I’m able to capture a mood or movement with a stroke of a colour.

My paintings and limited edition prints meet museum standards. I use professional artists' paint on canvas over a kiln dried wood frame.
The limited edition prints are printed on acid free paper using eco-friendly inks.

I am happy to work on a painting for as long as it takes to create a piece that the client is completely happy with. It starts with either meeting the dog and owner first if possible (and if not then by telephone or email.)

I like to work collaboratively with the client and I send them digital photos of their painting at various stages. Involve the client in the process helps ensure that they are completely happy with their pet’s painting.

How long does it take to do a painting and what is involved?

This is usually 4 to 12 weeks depending on the size. Allow up to 2 weeks for a drawing of your pet.

When I paint my main focus is to capture on canvas the dog’s personality and essence. Having said that I like to work on a painting for as long as it takes to create a piece that the client is completely happy with.

My dog is quite unique! How do I know what my painting will look like?

I rely on stories of your dog told by you - their likes and dislikes, why and how they are important to you, and anything else that come to mind help complete ideas of visual imagery that leads to the finished painting.
Is your dog wild and funny or serene and calm? I use colours that evoke those feelings. With my many years of training and experience I’m able to capture a mood or movement with a stroke of a colour.

Who are your customers?

My clients range from art collectors to dog owners who wish to have a portrait of their furry loved ones.
They are dog owners who like to remember and celebrate their pet through a painting, those who appreciate fine art, and who like the expressive quality that I bring to their portrait.

What if I don't have a photograph?

I can personally photograph your dog if you don't have a photo; or if you live in another city I can recommend a reasonably priced photographer.

Do you paint other pets?

I would be happy to paint any pet in your family. Dog, cats, birds or horses,they all hold a special place in our homes and hearts.

I need a very large painting to complement the architecture of my spacious home. What size are your paintings?

No matter what size of your wall or ceiling, I am able create a mural based on your needs and desires.