PET PORTRAITS IN PASTEL BY AWARD WINNING ARTIST JOANNE SIMPSON

Commissions etc.

2012-01-15T00:50:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my recent commissions

DRUMMER AND FUDGE - GOLDEN RETRIEVER AND CROSSBREED

TOR - BORDER COLLIE

THORN - FELL TERRIER

RUBY, TILLEY AND DAISY - MINIATURE DACHSHUNDS

SOCKS - GSD/BORDER COLLIE

Well it's been a busy few months not only with commissions but other things too. The run up to Christmas was very hectic as Dad was in hospital for a month and with it being over a three hour round trip to visit added to the stress. I mnaged to get all my commisions completed on time though.....phew!!Christmas went by at a great speed and was over and done with in a flash. It didn't seem there was any time at all between putting all the decs up and then taking them down. We had a good time though spending time with family and friends.

Hopefully the New Year will bring plenty of work my way. I've had a long overdue price increase. My prices had remained the same since 2006 so I thought it as about time they went up. I've also had to increased the postage and packaging charges to cover costs.

Busy, busy, busy

2011-10-18T04:53:00.001-07:00

Yet again it's been ages since I've updated my blog....sorry!! As well as being pretty busy with commissions, both Mum and Dad have been in hospital on seperate ocassions and very sadly our youngest Maine Coon, Finn, was taken ill very suddenly and unfortunately we had to have him put to sleep at the end of August. So life has been very hectic and stressful for a while.

I've been working on alot of portraits that have to be kept under wraps for a while but here are three of my recent pieces that I can show you.

First is Lily a beautiful chocolate English Cocker Spaniel. Lily was commissioned by some of the staff from Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire for Lady Cholmondeley's 90th birthday. She was delighted with the portrait and it now hangs in the Library at the Castle.

LILY - ENGLISH COCKER SPANIEL

Indy and Dory were commissioned by the same client. She wanted them on individual portraits and I completed them a few weeks ago.

INDY - HUNGARIAN VIZSLA

DORY - LURCHER TYPE

Some of my recent commissions.

2011-08-26T06:33:00.001-07:00

CHARLIE - SPRINGER SPANIEL
This is a memorial portrait of Charlie who sadly passed away a few weeks ago. it was quite a large picture at 15x18 and I was very pleased with the finished result, as was my client. The photo that I worked from was of Charlie after he had been for a dip in the sea. This is the first time I've drawn 'wet look' fur.

PEGGY-BORDER COLLIE/LURCHER
Peggy was one of my 'secret' commissions. She was given as a gift last week and now has pride of place on the lounge wall in her new home. I loved the angle of this piece, looking slightly up at the subject, which worked well.

ROLLO-SPRINGER SPANIEL
This is the second portrait I have completed for this client. The first also being a Springer called Digby who was Black and White. Another 'secret' birthday commission.

DACHA-SIBERIAN HUSKY
Dacha was the winner of the Buxton pet show 2010 and I donated a portrait to the winner. I've only just completed it as Dacha has been troubled with illness this past year and her owner was waiting to get a 'happy' photo of her for me to work from. She went to her new home last week.

MINSTREL-HORSE
This piece was quite a challenge as out of all the animals I do I am less familiar with horses. Four people commissioned me to do this portrait as a Birthday gift for their friend.

Lance

2011-07-13T05:28:00.001-07:00

Long time no blogging again......sorry. Time is just running away with me. I've still been working on 'secret' commissions until this one of Lance a stunning Border Collie. I've really enjoyed doing this portrait as the photo I had to work from was amazing. He'll be winging his way to sunny California very soon.

Next it's another 'secret' portrait and then it should be a Husky and then a Springer Spaniel, both of which I can show.

Some of my framed portraits

2011-05-24T03:00:00.001-07:00

Here are some of my framed portraits that I have displayed in my home. Quite an awkward shot to take and some , unfortunately, wouldn't fit in the photo.

Stuff

2011-05-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

Well I've finished the Border Collie/Lurcher portrait and the lady who commissioned me is over the moon with it, so much so she wants her own dogs doing( the BC/L is for a gift). I'm really pleased with it and can't wait to show you all, but I'll have to be patient :-))

Next is a horse. The photos are fab and I should be starting it shortly but again I can't post progress pics as that is also a surprise gift. I may do some breed examples in between using the ref. photos that I took at Crufts. I did outline an Italian Spinone a while back so might finish that one.

2011-05-16T05:39:00.000-07:00

Apologies for the lack of blogging but I just haven't had time. Below are the portraits I have worked on.

Ghyll - Smooth Haired Collie
Bumble - Pomeranian
Honey - Boxer

My next commission is a Border Collie/Lurcher cross. Unfortunately I can't show progress pics as it's for a gift.

TYSON AND HONEY FRAMED

HONEY WITH HER FRAMED PORTRAIT

HONEY

BUMBLE

GHYLL FRAMED

GHYLL

Kolo

2011-04-09T23:56:00.001-07:00

This is Kolo a very handsome Rottweiler. I've been under a bit of pressure to complete this one as time was very short and I've had to fit him in between other commissions. I also found it quite a challenge with his muzzle to get the colour right. Anyway he's completed and delivered and my client is thrilled with him.

Ruby and Oscar

2011-04-07T02:30:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of portraits that I can now reveal. Firstly a double portrait of Ruby an English Cocker Spaniel. Her owner had looked through my website and liked the idea of two different poses of the same dog on one portrait. Secondly we have Oscar who is a JRT cross. A great photo to work from and a great pose too. Both portraits were well received.

I've just completed a Rottweiler which I can't show just yet. Next is a Smooth haired Collie which I'm hoping to outline today and then I'll probably start to fill in the colour tomorrow.

I'm really hoping it's going to be a nice weekend so that I can crack on with the gardening. I made good progress with it last week so I'm hoping to finish off this weekend. I then need to get some seeds planted, busy, busy, busy.

Hope alls well with everyone.

A couple of examples

2011-03-17T07:42:00.001-07:00

Between commissions I have done a couple of breed examples. The first being King George a Boston Terrier and then a Saluki(sorry no name for this one) I really enjoyed working on a non commission for a change....no pressure:-))

I've also set up my store with Zazzle. A range of items are available with some of my pet portrait designs. The range includes Mugs, t shirt, keyrings, badges etc. Stop by and have a look. www.zazzle.co.uk/jopetportraits

What have I been upto???

2011-03-17T07:27:00.000-07:00

Gosh I didn't realise it was so long since I had posted anything..................sorry!! First things first. I can now show you one of my commissions so here she is, Panda, a stunning English Bull Terrier. She was a joy to do and was well received by her owner.

I still can't show you my other commissions until later this month so watch this space.

I went to Crufts on Friday and had the best day. Trouble is it's so vast you just can't get round everything in one day. I like to look at the breed rows and we probably only managed to get round a third of them. I did get some good photos though so that I can work on building up my breed examples on my website. My Auntie was showing her dog but we didn't get there in time to see her, anyway he's a Smooth haired Collie and he came 2nd in the puppy class so that was a good result.

Flo finished

2011-01-26T05:13:00.001-08:00

I've finished Flo today subject to her owners approval. I'm just waiting to hear if she's happy with her. Sorry the white on her neck is a bit glaring but I've had to use the flash and it's come out really light.

Next commission is a Cocker Spaniel but I won't be able to post any progress pics as it's for a surprise.

Flo

2011-01-25T06:37:00.002-08:00

Here's todays updates of Flo. She's progressing well and her owner is very pleased with her so far.

Flo

2011-01-24T06:09:00.000-08:00

Here's my next commission. Flo, an English Springer Spaniel. I've actually made good progress on this today. The light was really good this morning although it's fading now and is quite dull so I think I'll pack the pencils away until tomorrow.

Lily finished

2011-01-23T07:55:00.000-08:00

Here are the rest of Lily's progress pics and her finished. It's taken quite a bit of work on her muzzle area with the grey flecks in her fur. My client is pleased with her and she will be going to her new home on Tuesday.

Lily

2011-01-19T10:32:00.001-08:00

Here's todays progress on Lily. I didn't get as much done as I'd hoped. Hopefully more progress tomorrow.

Lily

2011-01-18T06:27:00.000-08:00

Whilst waiting for photos of the English Springer I got another commission so I've made a start on that one instead. This is Lily a Border cross. A more senior lady of 15 years who I had the pleasure of meeting on Saturday. She's a lovely girl and very friendly. She posed well for her photo shoot, with the aid of a biscuit for distraction. It was nice to actually meet one of my subjects, and her Mum and Dad, in person as most of the contact I have with people is via the internet.

Hopefully they'll be more progress pics tomorrow.

Pip

2011-01-13T03:41:00.001-08:00

This is my boy Pip. I've been meaning to do his adult portrait for ages and just haven't got around to it. Anyway here he is in a typical pose he adopts when you're talking to him.

Next portrait is either going to be another person practice piece or an English Springer commission.

Oliver

2011-01-10T23:39:00.000-08:00

I started this little chap as a practice piece ages ago and never got round to finishing him. Anyway I completed him yesterday. He's called Oliver and he's a King Charles Spaniel. I've really enjoyed working on him as he wasn't a commissioned piece so no pressure :-))

Don't forget the '£20 off any portrait' offer finishes on the 15th January.

Special offer

2010-12-29T03:24:00.000-08:00

There's not much on the horizon workwise so I've decided to offer a discount for a limited time to hopefully boost commission bookings. Fingers crossed it works:-))

*SPECIAL OFFER, LIMITED TIME ONLY*
£20 OFF ANY PORTRAIT ORDERED BEFORE 15TH JANUARY 2011. ORDERS MUST BE SECURED WITH A 25% DEPOSIT BEFORE 15TH JANUARY FOR THE £20 DISCOUNT TO APPLY.

Izzy

2010-12-27T02:00:00.001-08:00

This is another Christmas gift. This is my Grandaughter Izzy. I've never done an official people portrait before but I'm really happy with the result. It took me a while to get her skin tone as I wanted but now I've completed a person I would have a better idea of colours to use for any future subjects.

Dylan

2010-12-27T01:51:00.001-08:00

Another Christmas commission. Dylan a cute Jack Russell.

Priscilla and Elvis

2010-12-27T01:01:00.001-08:00

This is one of my Christmas commissions. A pair of gorgeous Labradoodles. They were really lovely to do with all the curly fur. Hopefully they were well received on Christmas day.

Einstein

2010-12-02T01:13:00.000-08:00

This is a portrait that I completed a while ago but I couldn't post it as it was for a gift. Anyway he's now been presented and well received.

Einstein was adopted from a rescue centre as a puppy. He had been found in an abandoned fridge in the desert with his brothers and sisters. He went to a loving home and lives in California with Darwin the Dalmation whose portrait I did a few years ago.

Other original artwork

2010-11-22T00:49:00.000-08:00

I've put some of my other original artwork on the auction site www.ebid.co.uk. Ideal Christmas gifts at a greatly reduced price than on my website. Happy bidding everyone.

Swan of St Neots. Item number 34456476

Field of Crimson. Search item number 34456556

Field of Crimson II. Search item number 34117825

1956 Chrysler New Yorker St. Regis finished

2010-11-17T05:14:00.001-08:00

Latest Classic car is finished subject to my clients approval. Hope he likes it.

Back to the pets for my next commission piece. A Jack Russell terrier this time.

1956 Chrysler New Yorker St. Regis

2010-11-10T04:43:00.000-08:00

Here's my next classic car commission a 1956 Chrysler New Yorker St. Regis. It's progressing well so far.

Landscape finished

2010-11-02T10:53:00.000-07:00

The landscape is finished. Quite a challenge but I got there in the end. I think I may have a go at some non commission landscapes when I get the chance. I've enjoyed it although I was 'stumbling around in the dark' so to speak until I got the hang of what colours and mark making would achieve the effect I was after.

Could be another car next or a Jack Russell depending on which photos arrive first. Watch this space :-))

Something different

2010-10-29T23:15:00.000-07:00

A couple more updates on the landscape.

Something different

2010-10-29T00:12:00.001-07:00

This is my latest commission that I'm working on. A landscape which is a first for me. I'm actually quite enjoying it now I've got into the swing of things. It's taken about 25 hours so far. The rocks and the sea have been quite difficult to get the effect that I wanted. I suppose, as with anything, practice makes perfecrt. Maybe I should have a go at some more landscape pictures.

Koda and Hugo Boss

2010-10-09T02:01:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of portraits that I completed a few weeks ago but couldn't post as they were for gifts.

1955 Cadillac finished

2010-10-06T10:34:00.000-07:00

I think the Caddy is finished but I'm just waiting for my clients approval.

Next commission is a landscape, which I've never done before (not as a commissioned piece anyway)

1955 Cadillac

2010-10-05T04:27:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest Caddy updates. I've just made a start on the front bumper area so it's a bit slow going now.

1955 Cadillac

2010-10-04T02:30:00.001-07:00

I've made some more progress on the Cadillac. More highlights needed on the metalwork yet to give it shape. Hopefully more later.

1955 Cadillac

2010-09-30T03:00:00.000-07:00

I've made a start on the next car, a 1955 Cadillac.

Christmas cards

2010-09-22T01:13:00.000-07:00

I've added two new Christmas card designs to my website. Hope you like them.

Christmas cards

2010-09-20T01:44:00.001-07:00

I now have a selection of hand painted Christmas cards available via my website www.joannes-petportraits.co.uk All cards are unique and could be framed by the recipient as mini original artworks. All designs are copyright Joanne Simpson.

I've now got four pet portraits completed that I can't show as they're all for gifts. It's a bit frustrating having to wait to show them.

Next I think it's another car.

Where do I start??

2010-09-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

Oh no I'm just so rubbish at this blogging!!! The days are just flying by. I completed the Black lab commission (sorry can't post until October). I've then had a little holiday. We went to visit some friends who live in Suffolk. Had a lovely time. We travelled down early on the Saturday and had a lovely walk in Dunwich forest in the afternoon. Pip and Oscar(his bezzy mate German Shepherd) had a fab time running around. We saw some Dartmoor ponies, no I've not lost the plot with Dartmoor ponies in Suffolk. They have a scheme in operation whereby they are integrating the Dartmoor ponies into the area. We came across 2 youngsters first who were not in the least bothered by our presence. Of course I'd forgotton to take my camera.....derr!!! Further along the walk we saw another group of 4 who were older but still not fazed by bounce about Pip and Oscar.

Sunday we went to a local fete. Made the mistake of taking Pippy dog , who unfortunately is not good on the lead. he dragged us there and then was so unsettled trying to 'round up' our group, we decided to take him back to Denise and Davids. There was a flying display later in the afternoon which we were able to watch from D and D's garden.

Monday we went into Aldeburgh, I just love this village, a mix of quaint cottages and larger buildings. Some brightly painted. I've been to Aldeburgh on several ocassions over the years but I particularly wanted to go and visit Peter Williams' exhibiton at the cinema gallery. Not to be disappointed. Pete is a fab artist. Having 'known' Pete via the internet over a number of years it was nice to meet him in person. We had a good chat about his art and I bought a print of a Sea horse that is awash with colour. We then went and had lunch at a hotel on the seafront and watched the waves crashing onto the pebbly beach. A really nice sight and sound when you live nowhere near the coast.

Tuesday, poor Den had to go to work...boo hoo...... but one thing I wanted to do whilst I was there was to have fish and chips on the pier at Southwold. Now as some of you will know I'm on some new diabetic medication which supresses my appetite, so I had to make sure I got the smallest portion of fish and chips out of the three of us. By heck it was DELICIOUS. Didn't manage all my chips but ate all the fish which was my goal:-))

Back home on Wednesday and then 'pottering' about for the rest of the week.

Soooooo this week back to the grindstone. I should have started a Morkie(Yorkie and Maltese cross) for an overseas customer but hadn't received the photos so have done a white cat commission and started a cross breed dog today. I can't post any pics at the mo as they're all for surprise gifts.

New meds are going well. Have lost 16lbs so far and feel fab. I've been really lucky as I've had no side effects to speak of. Blood sugar levels seem good but I really could do with an HBA1c test to see what my long term average is to see improvement level. Due at the hospital at the end of the month so should know more then.

Right off to sort dinner as Roy is due home anytime.

Hope everyone is keeping well.

1952 Cadillac finished

2010-08-20T06:26:00.000-07:00

Well the Cadillac is finished subject to her owners approval. I'm just waiting for him to get back to me. Hopefully he'll like her.

Next commission is a Black Labrador which I'm hoping to start on Monday.

I hope everyone has a lovely weekend.

1952 Cadillac

2010-08-20T01:38:00.000-07:00

This is where I got upto yesterday. Ideally I'd like to finish this today but there's alot of chrome work left to do which is slow going.

1952 Cadillac

2010-08-19T02:58:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest commission in progress, a 1952 Cadillac.

Cow finished

2010-08-16T23:21:00.000-07:00

I've now got the new computer so can post the photo of the finished cow. She's called Deepdale Raquel and is a Simmental. Ireally enjoy doing the cows, hopefully I'll get some more commissions.

Next is another car. A Cadillac this time. I'm not sure what year it is yet though.

Stuff

2010-08-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

Where do I start. Chrysler is finished and on my website www.joannes-petportraits.co.uk. I can't post it here as I've had a disaster with my laptop. Pip with his waggy tail knocked a glass of wine over it and I've taken it to the computer shop where its been stripped down, cleaned and rebuilt and still doesn't work. Luckily the hard drive is ok so when I get a new laptop all will be transferred. Hence no access to photos that were stored on it.

I've made a start on the next commission, which is almost finished to be honest. A Simmental cow. Looking good even if I do say so myself.

New meds still progressing well. I've been on it three weeks today, lost 10lbs so far and blood sugars are fab!!! Had some headaches this week but putting that down to stress.

Hope everyone is well and enjoy your weekend.

Chrysler

2010-08-03T06:24:00.001-07:00

Good progress again today on the Chrysler. Hopefully she'll be finished tomorrow.

Next commission is another cow which I'm really looking forward to starting.

Chrysler

2010-08-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

I've managed to get quite a bit done today so hopefully it'll be finished in the next few days.

1952 Chrysler Imperial

2010-07-29T05:57:00.001-07:00

Progress so far on the Chrysler this week. I'm having a day off tomorrow so more updates next week.

Next car commission - 1952 Chrysler Imperial

2010-07-23T11:01:00.000-07:00

Here's the beginning of the next car commission. More to follow next week.

Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Stuff

2010-07-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

Pet show went well, although I didn't sell anything alot of business cards went so hopefully that will lead to more commissions in the future. The weather managed to behave itself so it wasn't a wash out.

I've made a start on the next car, which I'll post seperately, and have another cattle enquiry on the cards.

I did post a while ago that I was going on some new diabetic medication. Well I started it today and so far so good. I've been a type 2 diabetic for over twelve years now and have been on insulin, which in the past 6 or 7 years, has meant 4 injections a day. Whilst this has been the 'norm' for me it has meant a great deal of weight gain over those 12 years. Unfortunately this is how the insulin has affected me. I have started a medication called Liraglutide which, if it works for me, will stimulate my own insulin cells to work better and a beneficial side of it is that it decreases appetite so helps with weight loss. Down side is that it does have side effects including nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, indigestion etc. It's another injection started on a low dose for a week and then increased after that. I've been taken off 3 of my insulin injections to be able to start this new med. The only thing I've noticed so far today is that I have had mild indegestion but I can cope with that if that's as bad as it gets. Symptoms should subside over time......hopefully. Will keep you posted as to progress, whether good or bad.

Pet show

2010-07-18T00:14:00.000-07:00

Ok so its Buxton pet show today and its RAINING AGAIN!!!!! I've got everything crossed that it will be fine and dry by this afternoon or else it could be a complete washout. I think everything will have to be covered to get it from the car to the show. I don't want all my cards and portraits getting wet and damaged after all the hard work I've put into them.

Dad enjoyed his little trip out for his birthday. The weather managed to stay fine so he could take in the scenery.

Right off to brave the weather to take Pip for his walk.

Pet show etc

2010-07-15T02:36:00.000-07:00

Gosh where is the time going. I've managed to make a load of greetings cards for the pet show. I've finished putting photographs of previous portraits in an album that can be displayed on the table. I've not had chance to finish the Cav or start the next car. Tut tut!!

Had a fab weekend with my cousin from America and other family members. had a VERY late night and still haven't recovered poperly.

Taking Dad out for a drive today as its his birthday. It'll be his first trip out since he came home from hospital earlier this year. Hope the rain holds off. We've already had a downpour this morning and a bad thunderstorm last night.

Tyson

2010-07-01T10:50:00.000-07:00

Ok, change of plan with the Cav as I got a commission of a Boxer dog so I've been working on that. I've not had time to post progress pics, sorry. I must be the worst blogger in the world.

I'm hoping to finish the Cav next week and start the next car portrait and get ready for the pet show, plus a visit from my cousin from America. So much to do :-)) I'm also waiting to go on new Diabetic meds, but that's another story which I'll blog when I know what's happening as it may be of interest to others.

Hope everyone is well.

Buxton pet show

2010-06-20T23:38:00.000-07:00

Sunday 18th July.

I'll be at Buxton pet show, in the Pavillion Gardens from 2pm. Some of my portraits will be on display and I'll have cards for sale. Best in show will win a 10x12 inch portrait. Details re photos and completion dates will be arranged with the winner on the day. Entry forms are available from Natures own and Buxton pets.

Buttercup's owner loves her portrait. The Cavalier King Charles is coming along well, hopefully I'll post some pictures of that later.

Buttercup finished

2010-06-16T04:01:00.001-07:00

I think Buttercup is finished and I have emailed her owner for approval. Hopefully he'll be happy with the finished portrait. I think I'm now going to take advantage of the nice weather and do some gardening.

Next project is a Cavalier King Charles which I'll start tomorrow.

Buttercup

2010-06-15T06:22:00.000-07:00

Here's my progress with Buttercup for today. I'm really pleased with her.

More Buttercup

2010-06-14T06:06:00.001-07:00

Blonde D'Aquitaine Heifer - Buttercup

2010-06-14T04:09:00.000-07:00

I've made a start on my next commission, Buttercup. It's nice to be back to the animals but I am strangely missing the fine lines of the cars.

Maremma Sheepdog

2010-06-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

This is a practice breed piece, of a Maremma Sheepdog, I've been working on between commissions.

V8 Plymouth Belvedere finished

2010-06-11T10:40:00.001-07:00

Penny is finished and her owner is really pleased with her, so much so that he's sent me my next project. I've also finished another WIP today which I'll post seperately.

V8 Plymouth Belvedere

2010-06-10T07:40:00.001-07:00

Good progress again today albeit I did make an early start on it. Decided to finish most of the bumper and then worked on the back panel and moved forward. Just the wheel and a bit of bumper to finish tomorrow and then hopefully I can call it finished.

V8 Plymouth Belvedere

2010-06-09T08:02:00.001-07:00

I've made reasonable progress with 'Penny' today. Some fiddly work on the bumper and headlight. I think tomorrow I'll continue with the bumper and hopefully get most of the front wing and wheel done too.

V8 Plymouth Belvedere

2010-06-08T06:03:00.000-07:00

Here are todays progress pics of 'Penny'. I feel I've made quite good progress on her today. I'm going to call that it for today as mt eyes are aching.

V8 Plymouth Belvedere

2010-06-07T12:05:00.001-07:00

Here's todays progress pics with the latest car. Matching the paintwork colour has been difficult but it's as near as I can get it with the colours that I have, anyway my client is happy with progress so far. More tomorrow.

V8 Plymouth Belvedere

2010-06-04T10:52:00.001-07:00

Here's the next car commission so far, 'Penny' is a Plymouth Belvedere. I've had to send some sample colours to my client for her paintwork as she is a Salmon pink colour and I wanted to make sure that I can match her as near as possible. He's obviously happy with my car portraits as he's sent me the photo for the next one.

I hope everyone has a fab weekend!!

Todays photo shoot

2010-06-01T07:05:00.000-07:00

I've been asked by a friend of mine to do a portrait of one of his Heifers. Buttercup is a Blonde D'Aquitaine cow and has a special attachment to the family as she was bullied by other members of the herd when she was a calf. She had to be seperated from the others at feeding times as they wouldn't let her feed, so she got used to being fed her feed from a bucket.

I've been upto the farm this morning, armed with my camera, and have got the perfect photo to work from. She was a little shy at first and then posed nicely for me. I've also got some shots of other members of the herd which I might do 'practice' portraits of at a later date. I'm really looking forward to starting Buttercups portrait as I really enjoyed the last cow portrait I did. It will probably be a couple of weeks before I can start her as I have another Classic car to do first which I'll be starting tomorrow.

Photo cards

2010-05-26T06:29:00.000-07:00

A selection of my portrait images are now available as photo cards. Check out this link for details.
www.joannes-petportraits.co.uk/a1-gallery2.asp?roomID=2028

Chrysler finished

2010-05-19T22:49:00.001-07:00

Betty is finished and my client thinks she looks stunning....yay!! I'm really pleased with how she's turned out. Next project is a V8 Plymouth called Penny which I'll start next week.

Chrysler

2010-05-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

I've pretty much finished the chrome work today. Tomorrow I can settle back into the bodywork and wheels.

Chrysler

2010-05-17T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is what I've done on the Chrysler today. It doesn't look much for a few hours work does it? It's very hard going on the eyes and I have to keep having a break. More tomorrow.

Chrysler

2010-05-14T05:37:00.000-07:00

I've not managed to do much on the Chrysler today apart from some of the bumper. I think it will probably be Monday now before I get chance to do anymore.

Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Chrysler

2010-05-13T06:21:00.001-07:00

Here's my progress with the Chrysler today. I've done a little on the chrome and I've filled in the number plate which was quite tricky. I think I'll concentrate on more of the chrome tomorrow.

Chrysler

2010-05-12T07:55:00.000-07:00

I've made some progress on Betty today. I've had to 'make up' the reflections to a degree as the owner didn't want the background showing through the windows as on the photo. I've got to the stage with her now where I can really see her taking shape. Initially there was very little done due to the detail. There's still alot of bumper and grill chrome to do which will slow me down but I want to get a bit more of her bonnet and wing done first to reduce the risk of smudging as I work.

Chrysler Coupe new Yorker

2010-05-11T06:35:00.001-07:00

I've made a start on 'Betty' the Chrysler Coupe New Yorker. Very slow working with all the chrome bumper and grill. Nearly 8 hours so far. More tomorrow.

Daisy and Misty

2010-05-05T03:00:00.001-07:00

These are two commissions that I completed earlier in the year but couldn't post as they were both for gifts. Daisy is a Blue Roan Cocker Spaniel and Misty is a Blue tortie Maine Coon.

Prints and cards

2010-04-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

I now have some original work, Giclee prints and cards available on my Fine Arts America site. I'm hoping to add some more work when I get the chance. Starting the next classic car commission is now on hold for a few days as I'm waiting for paper.

Hope everyone is working hard and has a great weekend:-))

Stuff

2010-04-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful day spent in the garden. It's taking a long time to get the garden back into shape. Last year we did nothing with it as Pip was going through the digging and wrecking stage and we were fighting a losing battle. He's now happy to just 'potter' whilst we're working so I feel we're now making headway. I've done sone re potting as some things were getting root bound. Hopefully they'll flourish now. I'm hoping to do some more tomorrow but it has given rain so will have to wait and see.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend.

Stuff and Dangerous Beauties

2010-04-23T10:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a beautiful day here so I've flitted between doing some gardening and uploading work to a new website. I've been looking through some work I did a few years ago and found some watercolour paintings I did of some Foxgloves that I had photographed in our garden. They measure 28x39 cm and are for sale for £195 each including UK postage. If anybody is interested or would like to make me a reasonable offer then I can be contacted via my website.

The garden is coming along nicely. It's looked like a bomb site since Pip was a puppy as he loved nothing more than digging holes and digging my plants up. Now he's a bit older and out of the destroying stage we can start to tidy it up without it getting wrecked.

I'm hoping to get some more done over the weekend as the forecast is good.

Next commission is another Classic car which I'm hoping to start next week.

Have a good weekend everybody.

Mini works of art on a card

2010-04-22T08:25:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd just add this photo so that you can see what the cards can look like framed.

Hand painted cards

2010-04-20T03:19:00.000-07:00

Here's a selection of my hand painted cards that I have added to my shop today.

Stuff

2010-04-19T12:27:00.000-07:00

The triple cat portrait has gone to it's new home today. My clients collected it this afternoon. I'm waiting for photos for my next commission so whilst I've been waiting I've set up a shop to sell my hand painted cards www.groovycart.co.uk/uniquecards I've not got many on there at the moment but it's quite time consuming uploading everything.

George, Sylvie and Gemma

2010-04-16T04:55:00.000-07:00

Here are the next stages and the finished portrait. Gemma, the red and white tabby, was a rescue cat when my clients lived overseas and unfortunately she had a very poorly eye which had to be removed. She manages perfectly well though.

Anyway I've just had an email to say that my clients are thrilled with the finished portrait.

George, Sylvie and Gemma

2010-04-15T01:55:00.000-07:00

This is my latest commission that I'm working on. Two Burmese cats and a ginger tabby and white. Here's progress so far.

Ally

2010-04-07T05:44:00.000-07:00

Having just completed a commission of a Maine Coon it's inspired me to do a portrait of one of my boys, Ally. It has been nice to do a portrait of a familiar subject for a change.

Stuff

2010-04-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

I've finished the Maine Coon portrait and my client is really pleased with it, so am I for that matter. I've really enjoyed this portrait.

Next it's three cats which I'll start next week and I can show progress pics of that portrait.

It's our first Wedding Anniversary on Sunday so hopefully a weekend of celebrations!!

Happy Easter everybody.

Stuff

2010-03-31T04:08:00.000-07:00

I've spent this week working on the Maine Coon commission. I'm really pleased with it and wish I could show you progress pics but It's for a gift so has to be kept under wraps until the end of April. I've really enjoyed this commission as I absolutely love Maine Coons. It's also made a change as alot of my recent commisions have been dogs.

Looking forward to the Easter break. We've got friends visiting on Sunday so no doubt a few glasses of wine will be consumed.

Hope everybody is ok and working hard.

Multi pet portrait-Shooter, Kizzy, Brachan and Clyde.

2010-03-23T03:56:00.000-07:00

This is a portrait I completed a while ago but couldn't post until today. It caused me a few headaches. All the pets had passed away apart from Kizzy the cat in the middle. The horse and dog ref. photos weren't good at all but I managed to get some good refs. off Flickr to help me. The other problem I had was how to position them. The horse needed to be on the left and the other cat bottom right due to the nature of the pose. I had to plan it all on paper before I started to see who would fit where best.

It's being given as a Birthday gift today, I hope she likes it.

Four dog portrait finished

2010-03-20T01:14:00.000-07:00

I've finished the four dog portrait and my client is pleased with it. It's been a marathon project with Dad being ill and also myself. Not to worry I got there in the end.

Next its a Maine Coon which I'm really looking forward to.

Four dog portrait

2010-03-17T01:23:00.001-07:00

At last I'm getting back on track with work. This is where I'm upto so far with the four dog portrait. The chocolate lab is working quite well. The last dog is another black labrador and I'm hoping that if all continues to go well and I can put the hours in that I can finish the portrait tomorrow.

Dad is coming home from hospital today which is good news. He seems much brighter and will hopefully continue to improve once he is home.

Some sad news this week, we had to have our oldest cat Ginny put to sleep. She was nearly fourteen and had been ill for a while. She had deteriorated over the weekend and on Monday morning we knew that ' the decision' had to be made. Even though she was our cat she lived across the street with Mum and Dad. She decided to leave us for a quieter life when we got our first Maine Coon, Mitch, when he was a kitten. He was just too bouncy and playful for her so she decided that at Mum and Dads she could have an easier life and that's where she's been for the last seven years. I saw her every day which was nice. Anyway she's peaceful in kitty heaven now no doubt chasing leaves like she used to do when she was younger.

Well I'd better crack on with the portrait. Hope you're all having a good week.

Stuff

2010-03-14T11:19:00.000-07:00

Had a brilliant day out at Crufts. I especially liked looking at all the breeds and chatting with the owners. We met two of our special friends there and it was lovely to see them. Very tiring, with all the walking that's involved, but thoroughly enjoyable.

Dad's still in hospital but improving every day which is good. Hopefully he will be able to come home this week.

Still working on the four dog portrait which I will upload progress pics of soon.

Stuff

2010-03-10T01:48:00.000-08:00

I've finished the Blue Roan Cocker Spaniel but can't show you as it's for a gift. I've made a start on the four dog portrait which I'll hopefully add progress pics so far later today.

Off to Crufts tomorrow and I can't wait, there are so many gorgeous dogs there. It'll be a long day but never mind. We're meeting some friends there too so it will be good to have a catch up.

Hope everyone is well.

Stuff

2010-02-28T05:20:00.000-08:00

Just been out for a short walk with Pippy dog. It's the first time I 've been out in a week. It was so nice to get some fresh air in my lungs. We didn't walk as far as usual but hopefully tomorrow I'll feel even better and manage the whole of our usual walk. I'm also hoping to start another portrait tomorrow and get back in a more normal routine.

Hope everybody is having a lovely weekend.XX

Stuff

2010-02-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

What a nightmare week. Started with flu on Monday and am still struggling today. No energy at all. I hate feeling like this when I've got work I want to get on with. I'm hoping the energy levels pick up this next week as the week after we're having a day at Crufts which I am soooo looking forward to. We went last year and had such a fantastic day. I saw breeds of dogs I didn't even know existed!! Really looking forward to seeing the Border Collies for obvious reasons.

Sam

2010-02-18T06:10:00.001-08:00

Here's my latest completed portrait that I can post. Sam a beautiful Springer Spaniel. My client is really pleased with him which is the main thing.

Stuff

2010-02-17T02:03:00.000-08:00

Sorry I've not posted for ages but my Dad's in hospital so things are a little hectic at the moment.
Four subject portrait is completed and approved but I can't post it for a couple of months. Have completed a single portrait of a Springer Spaniel which I'm just waiting for approval on and then I can put it on my website and blog. Next is a four portrait again of two black Labs, one Chocolate lab and a Lurcher. The Lurcher I have done before on his own. I'm just waiting for approval of my selection of photos and the positioning and then I can start it.

Molly, Milly, Mandy and Poppy finished

2010-01-20T06:40:00.001-08:00

I've finished the four Flat Coated retrievers. It's not photographed as well as I would have liked as the tongues have bleached a bit, but it's the best I could do with the lighting conditions. It is for a gift but my client has said I can put it on the internet as it won't be seen. My client, who commissioned the piece, is thrilled with it. I hope it gets the same reaction from the owner of the dogs.

Another four subject portrait next which is also a surprise present so no blogging progress pics I'm afraid.

Four dog portrait

2010-01-15T06:13:00.000-08:00

I've finished the first dog on the four dog portrait. I've made a start on the second but have now got a blinding headache so I think I'll have to call it a day. There's always housework to do instead I suppose :-((

1947 Dodge finished

2010-01-12T03:45:00.001-08:00

Here's Dolly finished. I'm really pleased with the finished portrait. My client has asked me to do another classic car portrait. This time it's a 1950 Chrysler Coupe. Anyway it's back to doggies for the next portrait. Unfortunately I can't put it on the blog as it's for a surprise gift.

1947 Dodge

2010-01-11T07:13:00.001-08:00

I've nearly finished 'Dolly', about another hour to go but I'll have to finish her tomorrow as the light has faded now.

1947 Dodge

2010-01-10T07:38:00.001-08:00

I've done another couple of hours on the Dodge today. My client is really pleased with her so far and to be honest so am I. I had worried about completing this portrait but now I've got into my stride I'm really enjoying it. I'm now getting more of a 'feel' for the shape and lines. Hopefully when I come to photograph the finished portrait the light will be better so that the background doesn't look so grey.

1947 Dodge

2010-01-09T07:29:00.001-08:00

I've managed to finish the bumper area today and I'm hoping to get the front wheel and paintwork above it completed tomorrow.

1947 Dodge

2010-01-08T05:11:00.001-08:00

Here's where I'm upto today with the car.