Pet Portrait Commissions

This pet portrait commission idea started when our daughter Anna requested a painting for her father-in-law, Frank, as a Christmas gift. She asked me to do a portrait of Frank’s beloved Brittany Spaniel, Sadie. With a bit of nervousness, I agreed to do this. So, sitting down to my easel one day I started the painting. What ensued was a bit of an aesthetic transformation.

If you take a few moments to look at my art work on this website you will see that I am well known for a type of painting that would not be classified as “animal art”. Many would also observe that my work is not what would be called “realism”. If you have another few moments, please check out my resume on the bio page. I have exhibited my work in many galleries and art centers around the country. I have received recognition for my paintings with awards from the National Endowment of the Arts, the McKnight Foundation, the Jerome Foundation and the Wisconsin and Minnesota State Arts Boards. I have also taught painting for the last twenty-two years at Minnesota State University, Mankato, MN.

So I have a history of success and accomplishment with my artwork. When I agreed to paint Sadie, I did not realize that much of who I am as an artist, my thinking, my knowledge, even my aesthetic principles would be challenged by this simple painting of a dog.

In a nutshell, I really enjoyed making the painting of Sadie. There was an immediate positive response from former students and colleagues around the country. I began to think that this would be a great way to make some paintings that would connect with people, so Poor Farm Studios Commissions was born!

A Cherished Work of Art

My concept for these portraits is to create a work that has aesthetic merit while still representing a truthful and detailed portrait of your pet. My wife Wilbur and I have enjoyed animal companions, as part of our family, for many years. What I appreciate about the presence of animals is their companionship. Even breeds of dogs that are typically “hyper” will often have a relaxed calm presence. This is a quietness that I try to express in my animal portraits. While I work exclusively from photographs I think it is important to understand the final work has a “painterliness” that makes it much more than just a copy of a photograph. This quality of paint makes the final portrait feel animate and lively. Your pet’s portrait will feel lifelike without looking exactly life a photograph. The painting of your pet will indeed be a family heirloom a cherished and valued work of art.

Highest Quality Materials

My pet portraits are created with the highest quality materials. I use oil paint on archival Masonite panels that have a ¾ inch laminate cradle. If you choose to have it framed I will build a custom frame with a finish or wood of your choice.

Commissioning Your Dog Portrait

First, since I work directly from photographs I will need several that you like. You have the option of either emailing me a high-resolution jpeg or mailing me a photograph that I can scan.
Then I develop the concept for the composition and email this information to you.
Once we agree upon the composition I will then need a 50% deposit paid with a check, money order or through pay pal to secure the commission. I currently have a four-month waiting list for commissions. I will notify you via email when I start your painting. When your commission is about halfway finished I will email you an in-progress photo. If, at this point, you cancel the order I will refund 50% of your deposit.
Once your painting is done I will email you a photograph for final comments and approval. Final payment is due then, once that is received I will ship your painting. I guarantee that you will love your painting, if, for any reason you are not satisfied you can return it for a full refund less shipping and handling.

Pet Portrait Pricing

Panel Size: 11”x14”
One pet = $ 450.00
Multiple pets per panel = $600.00

Custom Frame

painted or natural waxed finish pine. $75.00
natural finish, waxed oak, maple or other specialty wood. $150.00

Custom Sizes

Larger or custom sizes are available on consultation. Framing prices will be determined depending on size of final work.

Commission Inquiry

If you are interested in commissioning a one-of-a kind portrait of your pet please email me at nature@hickorytech.net