As a pet portrait artist specializing in watercolor, one of the most common questions I get is: How long does it take to finish a painting? The short answer? It varies! Here’s a detailed look at the process and time involved in creating my watercolor pet portraits and other paintings.
Pet Portraits: A Labor of Love
Pet portraits are the most intricate and time-intensive pieces I create. Why? Because they must capture not only the likeness but also the personality of someone’s beloved pet. Every detail—down to the colors, markings, and expressions—has to be just right. Clients commissioning a dog portrait or other pet painting expect a perfect representation of their furry friend, not just a generic animal.
Typical time frame: 8 to 25 hours, depending on size and complexity.
Wild Animal Paintings: Creative Freedom
When painting wild animals, I enjoy more creative freedom. Accuracy is important, but there’s room for artistic interpretation. This makes the process less stressful and more enjoyable.
Birds, amphibians, and reptiles tend to take less time than mammals, as painting fur “hair by hair” can be incredibly meticulous.
Why I Work Small
I choose to work on smaller pieces, typically no larger than 9″x12″, for several reasons:
- Focus: Smaller sizes keep me engaged, as I get bored easily.
- Physical challenges: As a disabled artist, limiting the size of my paintings helps me manage the physical demands of my work.
- Efficiency: I prefer completing a painting within 4-5 sittings (each about 3 hours or more).
This approach ensures that I stay motivated and that the artwork doesn’t remain unfinished for long.
My Passion for Watercolor
I fell in love with watercolor art because of its vibrant yet delicate qualities. Each painting, whether a watercolor pet portrait or a depiction of a wild animal, allows me to combine technical skill with creativity. As a watercolor artist, I appreciate the challenges and rewards of working in this medium—it’s unpredictable yet beautifully expressive.
Art and Disability: My Journey
Being a disabled artist adds a layer of complexity to my work. Every painting is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and the passion I have for my craft. My journey in art and disability has taught me to embrace the challenges while celebrating the unique perspective I bring to the world of animal art.
Let’s Connect!
If you have more questions about my process, whether it’s about pet portraits, watercolor animal art, or anything else, feel free to reach out. I love connecting with fellow art enthusiasts and sharing the story behind my work.