Behind the Scenes: A Day in the Life of a Pet Portrait Artist

Ever wondered what goes on behind the canvas of a pet portrait artist? As a pastel pet portrait artist, every day is filled with creativity, dedication, and a deep connection to the furry friends I have the honour to draw. Join me for a glimpse into a typical day in my life and discover the passion and process behind each stunning piece of art.

Early Morning: Setting the Scene

The day starts early in my studio, a space filled with the gentle hum of creativity. I begin with a morning ritual that sets the tone for the day—freshly brewed coffee in hand, I take a moment to admire the light streaming into the room. Natural light is crucial for my work as it reveals the true colours and subtle nuances of each pastel stroke. My studio is a sanctuary, adorned with vibrant pastels, sketches, and finished artworks that inspire me daily.

Morning: Reviewing and Planning Commissions

Once settled, I review my schedule and the list of pet portraits I’ll be working on. Each commission begins with a consultation with the pet owner. Understanding their vision and the personality of their pet is key to creating a portrait that truly captures their essence. I revisit notes from previous conversations and study the photos provided. It's not just about replicating an image—it's about translating the spirit of their beloved companion onto paper.

Mid-Morning: Sketching and Initial Outlines

With a clear plan in mind, I transition to the sketching phase. Using the photos and insights from the owners, I create a light pencil outline on high-quality pastel paper. This stage is all about capturing the proportions and basic features. It’s a delicate balance between precision and fluidity, setting the foundation for the detailed work to follow.

Late Morning: Bringing Colour to Life

This is where the magic truly begins. I begin with a base layer of colour using soft Pan Pastels, starting with the background first and then the pet itself. I feel starting with the background first in pet portraits establishes the overall mood and context, ensuring a cohesive composition and helping to create a harmonious relationship between the pet and its surroundings. PanPastels are ideal for a base layer in my pet portraits to create smooth, even tones and build a soft foundation of colour that captures the underlying hues and textures of the pet's fur. You can learn more about pastels for pet portraits on my dedicated Pastels page.

Once complete, I start with the eyes, the windows to the soul. Using soft pastel pencils, I layer colours to create depth and emotion, ensuring the eyes are expressive and lifelike. From there, I move on to the fur, using various techniques to blend and layer colours. Each stroke is intentional, reflecting the texture and unique markings of the pet. 

Soft pastels are perfect for pet portraits for their velvety finish and vibrant hues. My goal is to create a tactile quality, making viewers almost feel the softness of the fur.

Afternoon: Immersed in Details

Afternoons are dedicated to refining details and adding the finishing touches. This is the most time-consuming part but also the most rewarding. I focus on the subtle shifts in colour and texture that make each pet unique. Whether it’s the shimmer in a dog’s coat or the delicate whiskers of a cat, these details bring the portrait to life.

At this stage, I often step back to view the artwork from different angles and distances. It’s essential to see the portrait as a whole and ensure that all elements work harmoniously together.

Late Afternoon: Reviewing Progress and Communication

As the day progresses, I take time to review my progress and compare the portrait with the reference photos. I may share updates with the pet owner, inviting feedback to ensure their vision aligns with the evolving artwork. Communication is a critical part of the process, fostering a collaborative spirit that makes each portrait a true reflection of their pet.

Evening: Studio Cleanup and Reflection

The day winds down with a bit of housekeeping— brushing down surfaces, organising pastels, and preparing the studio for the next day. It’s a ritual that closes one chapter and opens another, ensuring that the creative flow continues smoothly.

I often spend the evening reflecting on the day’s work and planning for upcoming projects. It’s a moment to appreciate the journey and the joy of creating art that resonates deeply with people.

The Joy of Pet Portraiture

Being a pet portrait artist is more than just a job; it's a labor of love. Each day is an opportunity to celebrate the unique bond between pets and their owners. From the initial sketch to the final brushstroke, every step is infused with passion and care. 

Throughout the day, I am also busy responding to customer emails and new enquiries which I book into my calendar, as well delicately packaging up finished pet portraits ready to send out securely to my clients. I love the variety of tasks as a pet portrait artist which requires good time management and organisation. 

Final Thoughts

If you're considering commissioning a pet portrait or simply want to understand the artistry behind it, I hope this glimpse into my daily routine has inspired you. Each portrait is a unique journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to create lasting memories of your cherished pets.

Explore my portfolio and discover how I can bring your furry friend to life through the art of pastel pet portraiture. For more insights and tips, follow my blog and stay connected on social media.