At one point, having an illustrated portrait of your pet hanging on the wall might’ve seemed eccentric – anyone picturing the kitschy painting of dogs playing poker? But today, this niche of the pet industry grows more and more popular as owners take photographs of their beloved fur-babies one step further. Online retailers are finding viral success with commissioned digital or hand-drawn renditions of people’s pets, from traditional colored pencil sketches to modern minimalist designs to humorous Renaissance or even Star Wars themed versions. Besides adding personality to your home, pet portraits are a way to celebrate the loyal companion that’s made lockdown life and WFH so much more enjoyable.
Check out these Rhode Island artists specializing in the colorful and quirky world of pet portraiture.
Liz McGrath’s portraits are soft, delicate, life-like studies using a mix of colored pencils, watercolor, markers, and even acrylic on drawing paper or vellum. Known for whimsical children’s-book-esque illustrations, her pet portraits take on a more muted vibe to reflect the essence of the owner’s original photo. For prices and details, private message her on Facebook.
Since 2015, Providence artist Alexandra Rey has been creating custom pet portraits from photos using graphite or pastels. “My goal is to capture your pet’s true spirit and likeness,” says her intro on Etsy. The finished portrait, typically available in high-quality giclee prints, can now also be printed on a variety of personalized products like T-shirts, mugs, pillows, and even notebooks. Visit PawPrintsPetArt.business.site or go directly to her Etsy shop to order.
Cranston-based artist Kerrie Ascoli makes custom oil paintings of your pet, with a variety of sizes ranging from a 6x6 to 11x14 canvas – and even bigger, upon request. The result is a soft but striking masterpiece inspired by your pet’s photo. Reach out to Ascoli on Facebook and visit PetPortraitsByK.com for more pricing info.
From her Providence studio, Sandy MacDonald works as an artist, decorative painter, and muralist, with an entire section of her portfolio dedicated to pet portraiture. Known for equally beautiful and durable finishes on any surface, MacDonald does each portrait in oils on stretched linen, a process which takes on average six weeks to complete. Interested clients can reach out directly for a free estimate via her website, SandyMacStudio.com.
Bold use of colors and painterly strokes define Scott Groome’s abstract pet portraits, which transform the photo of your fur-baby into a statement piece of acrylic on canvas. Groome originally painted dynamic figures and portraits of people before he pursued pets, and uses the same approach to capture their energy. To order yours, message Groome on Facebook or Instagram (@sgroomeart) or email sgroomeart@gmail.com.
Dogtopia • 30 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick • 401-903-4900
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