The Process

First, I need good photographs. These can be either mailed to me or sent as digital images in jpeg format via e-mail. Photos should be taken from the level of the animal, not looking down on them from above. And head-on or just slightly turned are the best angles. The animal's mouth should be closed in at least one of the photos. Good pictures are really important.

Next, we talk about the theme and costume for your pet's portrait. After we decide on a direction, I will sketch out the idea and send an image for approval. Once the sketch is approved, I require a 50% nonrefundable deposit to begin the painting. As the painting nears completion, I will send another image for approval. This is usually sent as a digital photo via e-mail or the web. At this point, adjustments can still be made to fine-tune the details of your portrait.

Traditional oil paints dry slowly, and after the process is complete, your painting will need to dry for at least a month or two. (Longer is even better, when time permits, to insure the painting's longevity.) After the drying period, the painting is varnished and, upon receipt of final payment, shipped off to you.

Read about the making of

Jake & Rocket