I create realistic animal portraits in high-quality pastels and coloured pencils, always aiming to
capture the essence of the subject. Mostly, I am commissioned to draw pets
but I am also happy to work from any favourite animal photo you may have
and will I create art featuring wildlife – including birds and insects – and farm animals.
I use pastels on specialist card in a variety of background colours or coloured pencil on film, depending on which medium works best for the subject. I mostly recommend the
subject be painted against without additional
props so that the animal “pops” on the paper. Protecting your artwork under glass will ensure it gives
you enjoyment for many years to come.
I always like to have a chat with you about your animal before I start the
artwork so I can feel their personality.
I will provide you with a signed Certificate of Authenticity for all original works of art.

Dame Jane Goodall with pastel commissioned for her
“Yesterday Paul presented me with your two paintings of David Greybeard. And I want to congratulate you – they are stunning! The larger portrait, especially, captures David’s whole personality.”
Dame Jane Goodall, Bournemouth
“The likeness to my bloodhound, Ruby, in the portrait you did of her is incredible.
You should be very proud of it, I certainly am! Thanks a million!!”
Neil R, East Sussex
HOW I WORK
Here’s how the commissioning process works;
Get in touch with me by phone or email.
I will chat about your requirements and I will give you the total
cost and approximate timescale.
If you are happy to go ahead, I will request a 10% deposit to hold the booking.
I will ask that you send me some photographs, which we will
discuss and pick the best ones to base your painting on.
When the illustration is complete, I will invite you to come and see
it or send you photographs. If you are happy with the painting, I
will request final payment and the painting is yours.
PRICING & PAYMENT
Prices are based on the size of the portrait and cover one or two subjects in one piece:
7 x 9.5 inch/18 x 24cm – £350.00
12 x 15.5 inch / 30 x 40 cm – £450.00
Larger sizes and three or more subjects in one portrait priced by negotiation
All portraits are unframed but I can arrange framing at cost if preferred.
A deposit of 10% is due at the time of ordering with the balance payable on completion.
“I recently received the most beautiful picture of my working cocker spaniel.
Maria painted her in pastels and has really captured her loyal and faithful expression. It’s just so realistic. I received it at a very sensitive time and this gorgeous piece of artwork will always keep me uplifted”
Cherie P, East Sussex
“I just wanted to reach out and say a huge THANK YOU to you.
We absolutely love our painting of Honey (actually, we cried)”
Vicki, Norfolk
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does a portrait take?
I can’t provide an exact time for completion as it depends on how many
commissions I already have booked as well as the time of year. As I’m sure you
can understand, I am very busy pre-Christmas so please book well in advance
and allow for shipping time, too. If you need a portrait for a particular date,
please advise me at the time of booking. I will always do my best to meet your
deadline.
How does payment work?
A deposit of 10% is due at the time of ordering with the balance due on
completion.
What photos do you need?
The clearer and more detailed the photo you provide, the better and more
realistic your portrait will be. If you have a favourite photo that is lacking in
clarity, it can still be possible to replicate it if you can also provide clearer
photos of your subject from which I can obtain more detail.
If I’m having more than one subject done, do they have to be in the same photo?
No, I can work from more than one photo and combine them into one portrait for you.
Do you ship overseas?
Yes, let me know where you want your portrait to be sent and I can give you
the postage costs before you order.
IF YOU’RE READY TO BOOK…
Contact me by email or phone.