Process - paintings (on canvas, linen, or paper)
Ideally I start from a photograph (or two!) that you provide. Sometimes it’s hard to capture “that perfect scene” in an instant in a single photo, and working with you, we will talk about various adjustments to crop-out objects and set the scene. The most helpful photos will give me a strong sense of the eyes, facial expression, fur, colour, texture and frame of the animal.
I produce an initial rough sketch on canvas, testing proportions, white-space, and giving thought to how the viewer will engage with a canvas (i.e., the Golden Triangle (rule), brushwork, colour and lighting affect the movement of a viewer's eye around the piece).
I usually begin with the focal point of the work: the eyes, which reflect the soul of the animal. From there, the face, and figure broadly. The main subject usually takes several days of focused work. I spend a lot of time with brushwork that is complementary to the nature of the dog’s fur.
My extensive training as a dog breeder (trainer, judge, etc.) provides a strong intuition on the underlying skeletal frame and how the dog moves.
If there are other critical points in the scene (a tree, for instance), they are completed after the dog. Occasionally you will have a theme that you want painted in (see “The Fabulous Mr. Tank” in a bowler hat on the portfolio page), but more often we select a mottled background which complements the main subject and keeps the focus on your beloved pet.
The process can take up to a month: painting takes between 1 day and 6 days (depending on size and complexity) and I insist on 2 weeks for drying. We sometimes revisit the exterior border of the canvas at this point (depending on your plans for framing, or not) which doesn’t take long to paint but can lead to another 1-2 weeks for drying. I’ll keep you apprised every step of the way, knowing that often these original pieces are intended as a time sensitive gift – to yourself or to a loved one.
Although I prefer to hand you a painting in person, I can also arrange for insured shipping, and paintings have been shipped across North America and as far away as Australia.
Pricing (oil paintings)
Contact me for specifics. Pricing is affected by the complexity of the work. Sample pricing below, with a 50% deposit required on order.
Canvas size (inches) ... Regular price(*)
9x12 ... $275
12x16 ... $400
12x24 ... $450
14x18 ... $475
16x20 ... $500
18x24 ... $600
20x24 ... $720
24x30 ...$1050
Square canvases are also available (8x8, 10x10, 12x12, 16x16 and 20x20), as are larger canvases (up to 24x36). Additional animals in the same portrait are $100-$300 more depending on size of canvas.
(*) I am currently offering a “COVID discount”. In recognition that many people are struggling with challenges this year, I want to do what I can to help. In 2021, I am reducing prices by 10% and at your option:
- These savings are passed directly on to you, or,
- If you choose to pay the undiscounted price (table above), then I will donate 10% to a local charity.
Pricing (sketches and watercolour)
I am currently offering one size of 11x14 on high quality paper for $175, and $90/additional animal. For larger sizing please contact me to discuss as the pandemic makes paper supply availability limited.
Process - glass (wine glasses, jars, etc.)
If you have a piece of glassware that you’d like me to use, we can start from that. If not, I have a very small inventory of quality glassware that I can select from (pro tip: I’ve found some IKEA glassware that’s a good quality and price-point).
If we are doing a custom piece, then we select from among your photos and consider design features (e.g., paw prints along the base of the wine glass, etc.).
The process usually takes two days: the most straightforward painting takes at least an hour from initial sketch to final paint – and has to be hand-held during this time to avoid paint “running”. More involved custom pieces take several hours, so for some of the larger pieces below, I do the painting in stages. The piece bakes in the oven at a low-heat and slowly cools over the evening.
Pricing (glassware)
Contact me for specifics (as mentioned above)
Piece ... Regular price (*)
Wine glasses ... $50
Glass pendants ... $60
Plates ... $50
Cookie jar ... $65
* Please note: I am not taking orders for glassware at this time *