Who is this handsome gentleman?

Introducing Fin. An extremely loved, elderly Patterdale cross Jack Russell.

This portrait was painted for his owner’s 60th birthday. It’s a tribute to both of them. Fin has been at his owner’s side through some difficult times and he is utterly devoted to her. Like all of my portraits, this is about the preciousness of a bond like that.

I have used the same gouache paint and beautiful, coloured paper that I use for my jewellery illustrations, but I’ve also added some irridescent paint. It means the painting changes when you look at it from different angles. The geometric shapes are inspired by leaves. The diamonds are like little raindrops. I’m sure Fin would be much more interested in real leaves and water, but the gold and the jewels are there to represent how loved he is.

Fin has done his work and his owner is out of the other side and is blooming. I hope they enjoy many more years of adventuring together. But this portrait marks how wonderful he is.

A portrait of a pet is such a lovely and personal thing. If you are interested in commissioning something similar for yourself or as a gift, I would love to discuss how we can add gems or gold leaf to add significance and to make it completely unique. I can also keep it really simple. That’s lovely, too!

Contact me and we can make a start!

Fin coming to life in all his gloriousness on my messy desk!