By Midlands Artist Penny Richardson
The rolling hills and honey-coloured stone villages of Oxfordshire have inspired many people. The timeless countryside of the Cotswolds has also motivated artists, writers, and film makers for years. I am a Midlands-based artist who specialises in pet portrait commissions. I’m always delighted to work with clients from this beautiful part of the country. In this region, animals are very much part of everyday life.
My portraits feature much-loved family dogs, working farm animals, and cherished cats. I aim to capture not just a likeness, but also the soul and character that make each animal unique.
Inspired by the Cotswolds Countryside
The Cotswolds has a wonderful mix of tradition and modern rural life. Historic market towns such as Chipping Norton, Burford, and Stow-on-the-Wold stand out. The surrounding villages and farmland also contribute to this charm. Animals are truly at the heart of the landscape in this area.
Not far from Chipping Norton lies the now-famous Diddly Squat Farm, made well known through Jeremy Clarkson’s Farm. The popularity of the show has shone a spotlight on real countryside living — the hard work, humour and deep connection between people and their animals. It’s this authentic relationship that I love to reflect in my pet portrait commissions.
Your dog might join you on muddy walks across open fields. Your cat might survey the garden from a sun-warmed stone wall. Your animals might be part of a working rural environment. These stories shape how I approach each painting.
My Approach to Pet Portraits
Every pet portrait I create is entirely bespoke. I work from photographs. I take time to understand your pet’s personality. Whether it’s a lively sparkle, quiet dignity, or gentle curiosity.
My paintings focus on:
- Capturing expression and character
- Natural, timeless compositions
- Brushwork and texture that bring life to the subject
- A finished piece that sits beautifully in your home
Clients often tell me they recognise their pet instantly — not just in how they look, but in how the painting feels.
Pet Portrait Commissions Across Oxfordshire
I regularly undertake commissions from across Oxfordshire, including Oxford, Witney, Bicester, Banbury, Chipping Norton and the surrounding villages. Being based in the Midlands allows me to work closely with clients throughout the county. I achieve this through telephone conversations or detailed consultations online.
Many clients appreciate that commissioning a painting is a calm and personal process. It is very much in keeping with the slower pace of countryside life.
How to Commission a Pet Portrait
Commissioning a pet portrait is straightforward and enjoyable:
- Get in touch with details about your pet and a few photographs
- Choose your size and medium — from smaller intimate pieces to larger statement paintings
- Secure your place with a deposit
- Progress updates as your painting develops
- Final artwork delivered, ready to hang and treasure
Portraits are suitable for dogs, cats, horses, and other animals. They work whether the animals are pampered pets or part of a rural working life.
A Lasting Tribute
A pet portrait is more than decoration; it’s a lasting tribute to a companion who has shared your life. For many of my Oxfordshire and Cotswolds clients, their paintings become cherished family pieces, passed down and loved for generations.
Commission a Pet Portrait in the Cotswolds
If you live in Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds, I’d love to hear from you.
📩 Contact Penny Richardson to discuss your pet portrait commission. Begin creating a painting that tells your pet’s story beautifully.
