Capture Your Pet’s Personality in Paint: Pet Portraits by Penny Richardson
As pet owners, we all know there’s something magical about the way our furry (or feathered, or hooved) companions express themselves. Whether it’s the sparkle in a dog’s eyes, a cat’s folded paws, or the steady presence of a horse, each moment holds emotion. At Penny Richardson – Pet Portrait Artist, that spark is what transforms a photograph into a timeless piece of art.
About the Artist & Her Approach
Penny lives and works in Nottinghamshire, specialising in highly detailed, lifelike portraits of pets. Her portfolio ranges from head-and-shoulders dog or cat paintings through to full animal and equine works. She works closely with clients to capture the essence of each animal—its expression, fur texture, presence, and personality.
Each portrait is individually crafted. From the first image you send, your ideas for background, pose or mood, to the final rendering in your chosen medium, Penny ensures that the final piece is both an accurate likeness and an emotionally resonant keepsake.
Why Choose a Commissioned Portrait?
- A lasting memory — Pets are family. A custom painting preserves a moment in time.
- Unique gift — For birthdays, remembrances, or special occasions, there’s no gift like a portrait that was made just for you.
- Tailored to your taste — Backgrounds, framing styles, size, and presentation can all be discussed and customised.
- Supporting local artistry — You’re commissioning a handmade piece from a UK-based artist with passion and experience.
What Types of Pet Portraits Are Available
Penny offers a range of pet portrait options that suit different animals, styles, and client needs. Some of the main categories are:
- Dogs — head & shoulders dog portraits are featured, including detailed commissions for individual breeds. pennyrichardson.co.uk
- Cats
- Horses & equines
- Birds
- Farm / livestock animals or cattle
- Sporting / shooting dogs
With such variety, whether you want a small framed portrait for your hallway or a larger piece for display in a living room, there’s scope to match your vision.
The Commission Process – How It Works
Here’s how you’d typically commission a pet portrait with Penny:
- Get in touch — either by telephone or email. For instance, the website lists a phone number for enquiries. pennyrichardson.co.uk
- Send reference photos & ideas — you’ll share your favourite photographs of your pet (or pets), along with any initial ideas you have for pose, background, or mood.
- Quotation & discussion — Penny will discuss your requirements with you, then issue a written quote tailored to your requests. pennyrichardson.co.uk
- Work begins — once you agree the quote, the work of sketching, painting, refining begins.
- Framing & finishing — you may choose framing options (bespoke, style choices) and final presentation before delivery.
This bespoke workflow ensures both you and the artist are aligned every step of the way, producing a painting that truly reflects your pet and your vision.
Pricing & Size Options
While prices vary depending on dimensions, detail level, medium, framing, and whether you want just a head-and-shoulder portrait or something more elaborate.
If you want a larger composition or multiple animals in one piece, that will affect cost—Penny can quote accordingly.
Featured Portraits & Testimonials
One featured example is the Norwich Terrier portrait for a client in rural Nottinghamshire. The client feedback reads:
“We are thrilled with the picture of our Norwich Terrier Mabel. It looks lovely on the wall and really captures her personality.” pennyrichardson.co.uk
Including such heartfelt testimonials shows the emotional impact of a well-executed pet portrait.
Framing: Presentation Matters
Beyond the painting itself, Penny offers picture framing options, including bespoke and traditional styles. Well-chosen framing not only protects the artwork but elevates it as part of your home décor. It’s one of the finishing touches that turns your portrait into a treasured keepsake.
Ideal Gifts & Occasions
Commissioned pet portraits make wonderful gifts or commemorations for:
- birthdays
- anniversaries
- memorials / remembrance
- housewarmings
- special achievements (e.g. winning a show, agility competition)
- simply celebrating the ordinary joy of your pet being in your life
How to Get Started
If you’d like to commission your own pet portrait:
- Take a selection of high-quality, well-lit photos of your pet from different angles
- Think about the mood or personality you want to convey (whether playful, calm, dignified…)
- Contact Penny via the website or phone to discuss your ideas and receive a quote
- Consider whether you’d like framing options or special presentation
Penny can then guide you through all the options from sketch stage to delivered artwork.
