Commission a Pet Portrait or Wildlife Artwork

Honouring the Soul Behind Every Face

Whether it's the loyal gaze of a beloved pet or the untamed spirit of a wild creature, I paint each animal as an individual — with presence, emotion, and story.

Stripes the cat

Commissions are a chance to create something deeply personal and entirely unique. Whether you're looking to honour a cherished companion, celebrate a milestone, or bring the wild into your home, I would be honoured to work with you.


Pet Portraits

More Than an Exact Likeness — It's ALL in the Eyes!

Your pet is more than just a subject — they’re family, and their character deserves to shine through. I work from your photographs, which should focus closely on the eyes, to create a portrait that captures both appearance and essence.

You’ll receive:

  • A professional, original artwork 
  • Created using archival-quality paper; either Strathmore Mixed Media for smaller artwork or Fabriano Artistico for the larger artwork. 
  • A portrait that is full of soul and emotion, because it's all in the eyes!

Sizes available:

  • Small (approx. A4)
  • Medium (approx. A3)
  • Large (approx. A2) or bespoke sizing available on request
Ruby the Labrador Pet Portrait Clare Forgie Art

 

Mediums:
Mixed media (Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolour Paint and Faber-Castell Coloured Pencils) based on my style here or oil paints depending on preference.

I'm happy to advise on what would work best for your piece.


Wildlife Commissions

Bring the Wild Home

If you have a favourite species, a personal encounter, or a conservation story that matters to you, I can create a custom wildlife piece that reflects your passion.

Some clients commission:

  • A specific animal they feel deeply connected to
  • A symbolic and spiritual approach
  • A unique conversation piece with meaning beyond the surface (such as 'Burnt Out' or 'Lucky to be Alive')

The Commission Process

 

 

  1. Get in Touch – Use the contact form or email me directly with your idea or request. 
  2. Reference photos - See examples above; these are good because they are taken in good light, with a good resolution (often impacted by the quality of light), and I can see the detail of the eyes. This last point is crucial.
  3. We Discuss – Your vision, size, medium, and timescale. I’ll offer honest guidance and a quote.
  4. Booking Your Slot – A 50% deposit confirms your place in my schedule. 
  5. Creating the Work – I’ll send progress updates if required, and will let you know when it’s ready by sending you a digital image of the picture. Just remember it is SO much better in real life! 
  6. Final Approval & Delivery – You’ll approve the finished piece and pay the remaining 50% (plus postage and packing if applicable) before it’s carefully packaged and sent. 
  7. Local Collection - If you are local to me in Henley on Thames, you can collect it if you would prefer. I can also advise you on framing options through my local expert framer, but this is at extra cost.
Me with David, The Picture Framer with a framed picture of Georgie (painted in oils).

    Prices & Timescales

    Each piece is individually priced based on size, complexity, and medium.

    • Small portraits from £300
    • Medium pieces from £400
    • Larger works approximately £550 quoted individually

    Turnaround is typically 4–6 weeks, though this may vary depending on workload and seasonal demand.


    Ready to Begin?

    If you’d like to commission a portrait or bespoke wildlife artwork, I’d love to hear from you.

    Feel free to send any questions — there’s no pressure to commit. Every commission starts with a conversation.

    Contact Me
    Contact – ClareForgieArt or clare.forgie@sky.com.

    Summer the spaniel
     Summer the Spaniel (picture in oils)
    Tiki my cat - graphite pencil
    My beloved Tiki - drawn in graphite pencil
    It's pretty hard drawing your own pet who has passed away.