Oil Pet Portraits by Gabby

Traditional oil painting offers a depth and richness that no other medium can quite match. The slow-drying oils allow for subtle blending and layering, creating fur textures you can almost feel and eyes that seem to hold a glint of life. Unlike digital art or printed reproductions, every brushstroke in an oil portrait is unique and permanent. These paintings develop character as they age, becoming even more beautiful over time. Created using the same time-honoured techniques as the Old Masters, they are not just artworks—they are heirlooms, made to be treasured for generations.

Thoughtful planning ensures your oil portrait arrives in perfect time for that special occasion. For Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries or other key dates, I recommend getting in touch at least 3 to 4 months in advance. Oil painting is a slow, careful process—each layer needs time to cure before the next can begin, and quality simply cannot be rushed. I work to a commission queue, and busy periods like Christmas tend to fill quickly. While I occasionally accommodate last-minute requests, early contact allows time for photo selection, composition planning, and scheduling—all the details that make your portrait truly special.

I work exclusively with premium linen canvas and professional-grade oil paints, chosen for their longevity and colour stability. Each canvas is custom-stretched and primed to archival standards, ensuring your portrait remains structurally sound for generations. The natural texture of linen not only enhances paint adhesion but also adds character to the finished piece. My oils are rich in high-quality pigments, offering vibrant, lasting colour that will not fade over time. This level of material investment means your portrait will retain its beauty for decades—and may even appreciate in value as a treasured family heirloom.

Traditional oil painting is a slow and deliberate process, built up in carefully planned layers—each with its own purpose. I begin with detailed compositional sketches, followed by an underpainting to establish values and form. From there, each new layer adds colour temperature, texture, and depth, gradually bringing the portrait to life. The process cannot be rushed—each layer must reach just the right level of tackiness before the next is applied. This methodical approach allows for exceptional control and subtlety, creating depth and richness that simply cannot be achieved in a single layer. You will receive progress photos along the way, so you can watch your portrait evolve from sketch to finished painting.

Memorial commissions are handled with the utmost care and sensitivity, knowing they honour companions who meant the world to you. I understand how emotional this process can be, and I work gently with families—often using treasured photographs that carry deep personal meaning. Gabby approaches each painting with quiet reverence, recognising that every brushstroke plays a part in healing and remembrance. These portraits become meaningful focal points in the home, celebrating a life well lived and the joy your horse brought. The permanence and richness of oil painting make it a fitting tribute to the lasting bond you shared.

Gift vouchers are a wonderful way to keep the element of surprise while allowing flexibility with timing. If commissioning a portrait does not quite align with a birthday, Christmas, or anniversary deadline, a beautifully presented voucher shows thoughtful intent without rushing the process. It also gives the recipient the joy of being involved—choosing favourite photos and helping shape the final composition becomes part of the experience. My vouchers can be customised for any occasion and make a perfect solution when you want to give something truly meaningful, while ensuring the finished portrait is exactly right.

Incorporating a background transforms a portrait into something more than a likeness—it becomes a story. By adding a meaningful setting, I capture not just your pet’s appearance, but a glimpse into their world and your life together. It might be a favourite walking trail, a well-loved garden, or a landscape that holds special memories. Gabby can work from your reference photos or create a scene that feels authentic and true to your pet’s life. These environmental details bring atmosphere, depth, and context, turning a portrait into a complete, personalised artwork that speaks far beyond the canvas.

Great reference photography dramatically improves your final portrait’s quality and character. Use natural lighting whenever possible – window light or outdoor shade provides even, flattering illumination. Position yourself at your pet’s eye level for engaging perspective and connection. Capture multiple expressions and angles, as variety gives me options for the most compelling composition. Avoid flash photography, which flattens features and creates harsh shadows. Don’t worry about perfect technical quality – emotion and expression matter more than professional equipment. I’m experts at working with phone photos when they capture personality beautifully.

Great reference photos make all the difference when it comes to capturing the heart and soul of your portrait. Natural lighting is key—window light or gentle outdoor shade gives soft, even illumination without harsh shadows. Try to get down to your pet’s eye level for a more engaging and connected perspective. Take plenty of photos from different angles and with varied expressions—the more variety, the more options I have for creating the perfect composition. Avoid using flash, as it tends to flatten features and create unnatural highlights. And do not worry about using professional equipment—some of the best portraits start with phone photos that capture personality and emotion beautifully. I can work wonders with those.