Melanie&Nicholas

Oil and Pencil Pet Portraits from Photos

Memorial Pet Portraits – A Loving Tribute to Your Beloved Companion

Hand-drawn pencil portraits created with care and sensitivity, to remember the pets who meant everything.

Many of our clients come to us at a deeply emotional time. Their pet has recently passed, or they are thinking ahead and beginning to plan. As dog owners ourselves, Nicholas and I understand that bond completely — and we take great care with every memorial commission we receive.

Each portrait is drawn by hand on archival paper, working from your existing photographs. We are experienced at working with imperfect images, combining photos, and finding the best of what you have. We will guide you gently through the whole process.

If you would like to understand more about commissioning a memorial portrait before getting in touch, we have written a detailed guide: In-Depth Guide to Memorial Pet Portraits. It covers everything from choosing photos and timing, to the ashes service and what to expect.

Memorial pet portrait in pencil with loving tribute to Louis
Louis - Memorial Pet Portrait

Creating a Portrait That Honours Their Memory

I understand the bond you shared with your pet — as I do with my own dog Lily. It would be a privilege to draw your pet and keep their spirit alive in a portrait you can treasure for the rest of your life.

There is no rush. We will work at whatever pace feels right for you. If photos are not perfect, do not worry — that is something I can help with. And if you would like to include something very personal, such as your pet's ashes, whiskers or fur within the portrait, that is something I offer as part of the service at no extra cost.

Pet ashes being carefully incorporated into memorial portrait artwork
Unique Ashes Service

Incorporating Your Pet's Ashes

In the pencil portrait of Max I attached one of his whiskers and placed it in situ on the portrait. I also wrote his name in capitals as requested by my client, using his Ashes and adhesive to create the name. There is no additional cost for this service.

My Unique Ash Incorporation Service

  • Carefully incorporate small amounts of ashes into the artwork
  • Can write pet names using ashes and adhesive
  • Preserve whiskers or fur within the portrait
  • No additional cost for this special service
  • Handled with utmost care and respect
  • Creates truly irreplaceable keepsakes

Memorial portraits are available in all pencil sizes, with 10x8, 12x10, and 16x12 being particularly beautiful for single head and shoulder portraits.

I can carefully incorporate a very small amount of your pet's ashes into specific areas of the artwork - such as writing their name, creating paw prints, or adding texture. This creates a truly unique memorial where your pet becomes part of their portrait.

  • Safe Handling: Ashes are handled with utmost care and respect
  • Small Amount Needed: Only a teaspoon or less required
  • Secure Shipping: I provide instructions for safe postal delivery
  • Personal Elements: Can also preserve whiskers or fur
  • Extended Timeline: Ash incorporation adds 1 week to completion

There's no perfect timeline for grief, but many people find that a few weeks to a few months after their loss feels right. The portrait becomes a celebration of happy memories rather than a painful reminder.

  • No Rush: Take the time you need to heal
  • Celebration of Life: Focus shifts to happy memories
  • Gift Consideration: Sometimes given by caring friends or family
  • Anniversary Tributes: Some choose special dates for completion
  • Healing Process: Often becomes part of the healing journey

I understand that with memorial portraits, we are limited to existing photos. I'm experienced at working with less than perfect images and can often combine multiple photos or work with what you have to create a beautiful tribute.

  • Photo Combination: Can merge details from multiple images
  • Enhancement Skills: Experienced with challenging reference photos
  • Smaller Sizes Available: If photos limit detail, smaller formats work beautifully
  • Character Focus: Emphasis on capturing their spirit and personality
  • Collaborative Process: We'll work together to make the best of available images

Memorial portraits are available in all my pencil sizes. For single head and shoulder portraits that capture personality and spirit, I particularly recommend 10x8, 12x10, and 16x12 inches.

  • 10x8 inches: Perfect intimate memorial size
  • 12x10 inches: Beautiful detail while remaining personal
  • 16x12 inches: Stunning detail for wall display
  • Custom Sizes: Other sizes available based on your needs
  • Pricing Information: Visit my prices page for detailed information

Absolutely. Many families have bonded pairs or multiple pets who were companions. I can create beautiful memorial portraits featuring multiple pets together, celebrating their relationships and shared memories.

  • Companion Portraits: Perfect for bonded pairs
  • Family Groups: Multiple family pets together
  • Timeline Flexibility: Pets don't need to have passed at the same time
  • Photo Requirements: Prefer photos showing them together, but can work with separate images
  • Larger Formats: May require bigger sizes for multiple subjects

My commissions list varies throughout the year. With my artwork being hand drawn, it does take time. My clients prefer me not to rush their drawings. I will always give an estimated time of arrival when you enquire.

Yes, memorial portrait gift certificates are available and can be a thoughtful way for friends and family to support someone through their grief by offering this meaningful tribute.

  • Thoughtful Gifts: Perfect for grieving friends or family
  • No Expiry: Recipients can commission when they feel ready
  • Flexible Amounts: Available for any commission value
  • Digital Delivery: Can be sent electronically or by post
  • Personal Message: Include a caring note with the certificate

Commission a Memorial Portrait

Let's create a beautiful tribute to honor your beloved pet's memory. Share their story with me and we'll work together to create something truly special.

What to Include in Your Enquiry

  • Send me photos of your pet (largest size possible)
  • Let me know the size of portrait you might like
  • Do you have any special ideas?
  • Approximate timeline for arrival
  • Your location for delivery

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 07983274170 (you can call us at any time)

Bringing Comfort Through Art

"Hi Melanie, wow - thank you SO much it's perfect! How very talented you are! So excited to see it! "

Commission a Portrait

Send us your favourite photos of your dog, cat, or horse and we will help you choose the perfect one for your portrait. We are happy to chat about any ideas you have for a portrait. We can’t wait to get started!