A Pet Portrait For Christmas
This 9"x12" pet portrait of Franee the chihuahua was a heartfelt Christmas gift created for Byron and Luana. Rather than a standard photo or generic keepsake, this painting captures the essence of a much-loved companion in a way that feels deeply personal and lasting.
Franee is a small chihuahua with a big personality, and I wanted that to shine through in her pet portrait. I began with a reference photo that showcased her unique expression, but from there, I added personalized details to make the final piece truly one-of-a-kind. The painting was done using an airbrush, which allowed for smooth transitions in fur tone, subtle highlights, and delicate details in her eyes and features.
While the reference photo was a great starting point, I chose to reimagine the background entirely. I opted for a rich, dark navy that enhances the warm tones of Franee’s fur and provides a clean contrast to help her stand out. The background gives the portrait a timeless, elegant feel without distracting from her sweet face.
In the foreground, I included a single tiger lily. Bright, vibrant, and full of meaning. This wasn't just a decorative choice. The flower was inspired by the ones growing in Luana’s garden. These tiger lilies have a special place in her heart, and they’re part of the outdoor space where Franee loves to roll around and explore. Including one in the painting added a personal and symbolic element, connecting the portrait to both Franee’s home and the person who loves her most.
That’s one of the things I love about creating pet portraits. Every piece becomes more than a visual likeness; it turns into a story. With just a few meaningful details, a painting can represent a whole relationship. In this case, the portrait ties together Franee’s personality, her bond with Byron and Luana, and the place where she feels most herself.
The airbrush technique brought a softness to the overall piece, allowing me to blend the shadows and highlights in her fur and create a lifelike texture. It also helped give her eyes that warm, alert expression that’s so recognizable to anyone who knows her. I worked carefully to preserve the energy and charm that make Franee unique.
Check out this Youtube short showing some of the process of painting this portrait. It’s a fun glimpse into the behind-the-scenes work that goes into every piece I create.
Custom pet portraits make wonderful gifts, whether for a special occasion like Christmas or simply as a way to celebrate the animals who bring joy into our lives. They serve as lasting reminders of the love we share with our pets and the everyday moments that matter most. Each portrait is tailored not just to the animal, but to the people who care for them, making it a gift filled with emotion and intention.
Today, Franee’s portrait hangs in Byron and Luana’s home, a daily reminder of their beloved companion. It was an honour to create this piece for them, and I hope it continues to bring warmth and smiles for years to come.