So many times I have heard “Why would you want a portrait painted of your pet? I have loads of photos on my phone…”
Our pets are not just animals they are loved and cherished as part of our families, for many people their pets are their family. We are given these lovely beings for such a short space of time in relation to our lifespan, and we love them with all our hearts. Why would you want to store their images away on your phone or pc?
Of course I am not dissing photography, indeed I am a keen amateur photographer and my hard drive (and phone) are jammed full of images of my pets; dogs, cats, chickens….etc you name it. However consider the two quick questions below.
One. Although the pictures below are nice photographs would you consider placing any of these pictures on the wall as a lasting memory to a beloved furry one?
Two. In comparison these are paintings I have been commissioned to paint, would you be more inclined to display these in your home or give as special gift to someone?
A few of the portraits above are of pets of which have now sadly gone over the ‘Rainbow Bridge’. One of which is my own much-loved Rocky (with the stupid ears). I am so glad I got to paint him while he was alive, I loved every minute creating his portrait. Now he has sadly gone I see this painting as a celebration to him.
In contrast I think ‘people portraits’ are different as we are capturing with the camera multiple memories and ‘moments in time’, a child’s first birthday, weddings, holidays, etc. Painting a pet portrait we are creating a lasting memory of the spirit of that special animal’s personality and the character who shares his or hers life, love and affection with us.
So maybe the question should be ‘Why would you not want a portrait painted of your pet?’
