The Art of Capturing Soul; Behind my canine portrait "Ruby"
There's something truly special about drawing animals - dogs. Each portrait is more than just a likeness; it's an attempt to capture the unique spirit and warmth that our canine companions bring into our lives. My recent piece "Ruby" is a celebration of that bond, and i wanted to share a bit about the process and inspiration behind it
The idea of this commission piece came from the expressive moments dogs share with us. Whether its a gentle gaze or a subtle tilt of the head, these small gestures reveal so much about their personalities. I aimed to reflect that sense of connection in this piece, focusing on Rubys' soulful eyes and the intricate textures of her fur.
The real challenge - and joy - came in layering colours to build up the lifelike texture of the fur. I paid special attention to the play of light and shadow, which helps bring out the softness and depth in her coat.
For the eyes, i used a combination of warm and cool tones to create a sense of depth and intelligence. It's always my favourite part of any animal portrait, as the eyes are where the personality shines through.
Why Animal Portraits Matter;
For many of us, pets are family. They offer unconditional love, companionship, and endless inspiration. Through my art, i hope to honour that relationship and create pieces that resonate with fellow animal lovers. "Ruby" is a reminder of the joy and comfort our furry friends bring into our lives.
If you're drawn to animal portraits or have a beloved pet you'd like immortalised in art, i'd love to connect. There's nothing more rewarding than creating a piece that captures the heart of a cherished companion.
Thank you for joining me on this creative journey. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes and new artwork!